
Rnnlc ,S2>T£ 




; L. ..- JL_— Li_l*^- '^ , V- <■ " ^v.** 



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MERC 



SKETCH BOOK 






SAINT LOUIS: 



CONTAINING A 



SERIES OF SKETCHES 



EARLY SETTLEMENT, PUBLIC BUILDINGS, HOTELS, RAILROADS, STEAMBOATS, 

FOUNDRY AND MACHINE SHOPS, MERCANTILE HOUSES, 

GROCERS, MANUFACTURING HOUSES, &C 



By TAYLOR & CROOKS. 



f 




ST. LOUIS, MO.: 

GEORGE KNAPP & CO., PRINTERS AND BINDERS. 

1858. 




MERIHANTS EXCHANGE ST LOUIS M? 



A.M'LCAN LITM. 



fr 




Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1858, by 

TAYLOB & CROOKS, 

In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the Eastern District of Missouri. 



ERRATA. 



On p. 103 instead of " £>t. Louis Daily Republican " read "Daily Missouri Re- 
publican." 

On p. 153, 12 lines from bottom read " Mr. George H. Burrows" instead of 
" Mr. George IT. Broum." 

On p. 156, 8 lines from bottom read " G. H. Burrows," instead of " S. H> 
Burrou-s." 

On p. 258, in the article about I\lr. George N. Lynch's Undertaking Estab- 
lishment, we speak of the decease of Mr. Wni. A. Lynch. We are informed 
by the gentleman himself that it is a mistake, on the contrary he is enjoying 
the best of health and bids fair to live many years. Such an error upon our 
part is unpardonable, and we can only plead, as an excuse, the incorrectness 
of our information. 

On p. 277, 14 lines from top read "than from stock," instead of "than farm 

stoclc." 

On p. 391, 12 lines from top read " two Cupalos," instead of" ten Cupalos-" 
On p. 279, 13 lines from bottom, read " Straub's Queen of the South," instead 
of " Strant's Queen of the South." 

On p. 202, 7 lines from top read " Miss Manney," instead of " Miss Monroe." 
A notice E. W. Waive, Marble Works will be found on page 392, and we 
beg to call the readers attention to that article. 



<J± 



Tf 



PREFACE. 



In offering to the reading public the Sketch Book of St. 
Louis, we have endeavored to meet a demand which has long 
existed for a work which would reflect the interests of the city in 
a true light. How well we have accomplished the task we leave 
you to determine ; but should we lag behind your expectations, 
we beg your kind consideration, promising when we next appear 
before you to endeavor to be more worthy ; in the mean- time 
we remain the public's faithful servants, 

J. N. TAYLOR, 
M. 0. CROOKS. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 



CHAPTER I. 

INTRODUCTION. 

The commercial importance of the territory acquired by 
the United States under the treaty between this Government 
and Mexico, is calculated to produce many extraordinary 
changes in the commerce of the entire continent ; but in no 
other part of the country will the effects resulting from this 
acquisition be so extensive and important as in the Valley of 
the Mississippi. Believing, as we do, that the events of the 
present age will compel the construction of a railway from 
some point in the Valley of the Mississippi to the Pacific 
ocean, we are forced to the conclusion that the principal seat 
of commerce will be transferred from the coast of the Atlan- 
tic to the banks of the mighty Mississippi. Admitting the 
probability of such an event, it is natural to inquire where 
the great commercial city of this region is to be located ; 
and, as the merits of the different pointy on the river 
have been pretty thoroughly discussed through the columns 



6 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

of the daily papers, we have come to the conclusion to fur- 
nish the reading community with a " Sketch Book of St. 
Louis," wherein all the different kinds of business receive 
from our hands a fair and impartial notice. 

To fulfill more completely the object in view, we 
have, at no little cost and trouble to ourselves, visited 
many of St. Louis' most extensive and prominent business, 
mechanical, manufacturing and mercantile houses, and have 
endeavored to give a faithful and accurate description of 
them, together with the facilities possessed for the transac- 
tion of business. 

St. Louis, as a commercial emporium, has been for some 
years regarded as advancing more rapidly than any other 
place in the West. A few years ago, and some, perhaps 
most, of the old cities on the Ohio river were in advance of 
her. Many of our old citizens recollect very well when the 
merchants of the western portion of Illinois, and even of 
Missouri, purchased many kinds of goods at Cincinnati and 
Louisville, and brought them round here for sale. St. Louis, 
in point of population, of manufactures, and commerce, was 
behind either of the cities we have mentioned. But a 
mighty change has taken place. St. Louis in ten years has 
advanced with giant strides, and never in her history has she 
done so large a business or had as extended and prosperous 
commerce, notwithstanding the monetary crisis which hung, 
with leaden wings, over the entire country, as the year just 
closed in. Never were prospects for a heavy Spring trade 
more bright -or promising than the one just ushered in. 

St. Louis merchants, asTa class of men, have not, probably, 
their superiors in the country. Prompt, honorable, high- 
minded, well informed men, not condescending to the little 
tricks which, to a considerable extent, mark some business 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 7 

men, or rather, men in business, in some other places ; they 
seek by legitimate means to extend their operations, and by 
large sales and fair profits build up at the same time an ex- 
tensive and influential business and an ample fortune. 

Very many of our merchants have done both, and by 
their integrity and probity have given a high and exalted 
tone to the mercantile character of the city. Wc could 
point to many, who, having devoted years to business in this 
city, have maintained, throughout the whole period, such a 
reputation as any honorable man would be pleased to leave 
as an inheritance to his posterity. 

Now, our wholesale dealers, in the various branches, have 
conducted their business so prudently, as to have extended 
sales into all portions of the West, from Minnesota to Texas 
— from the great Lakes to New Mexico and Utah — and to 
bring about this result, there has been a cordial co-operation 
between our merchants and manufacturers. 

St. Louis may not only feel proud of her position, as a 
place of business concentration, but she may and does feel 
proud of the men, in all branches, who are engaged in the 
business of the place. 

But the commercial greatness and importance of St. Louis 
is not only evidenced by the number, the probity, and the 
extensive operations of her merchants, but also in her vast 
commerce, the number, size and beauty of her steamboats. 
The vast increase in the number and costliness of these 
" floating palaces " in the past few years, show how rapid 
and healthy must be the growth and business of St. Louis 
as a commercial emporium. 

Such a work as we now offer to your favorable considera- 
tion must necessarily be meagre, yet it is sincerely hoped 
that we shall be able to convey to the reader a partial 



8 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

knowledge of the immense amount of business transacted an- 
nually, as well as the vast resources which St. Louis possesses. 
In furtherance of the object in view, it has occurred to us 
that a short sketch of the early settlement and progress of 
St. Louis would prove interesting. Such a history must 
necessarily be condensed, as we have not the space to more 
than mention the different incidents. A history complete in 
all its parts would fill a volume much larger than we purpose 
making ours. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 



CHAPTER II. 

EARLY HISTORY. 

It was on one of those dark, gusty days, that so often clothe, 
in a western clime, the latter portions of November with a 
penumbral mistiness, that a party of boatmen, caroling in na- 
tive sweetness their sweet and simple songs, might have been 
seen winding around the point of what is now known as Dun- 
can's Island. The day throughout had assumed all of the fan- 
tastic ebullitions of passion and change, that mark the ever- 
changing footsteps of some spoiled, yet beautiful coquette. 
One moment suffused with the sweet smiles of love and tender- 
ness, with the dimpling sunshine resting in playfulness on the 
cheek, an hour of rest too long to last, the frenzy of madness 
seizes on the brain, and all within is dark and gloomy, with 
sudden drifts of clouds flitting as shadows along the sunshine 
of life. So had been the day ; one moment, all of the rich 
glow of an Indian summer, and all of its mild warmth, smiled 
the affections of love on the earth, to be succeeded by fitful gusts 
of wind, cheerless and disconsolate. Many had been the chan- 
ges that had passed along the earth that day. The distant 
thunder, as it rumbled along its folds of clouds, and the rain- 
drops, as they pattered on the half withered flowers below, 
were all succeeded too soon by the rich gorgeousness of an 
autumnal sky. Such was the day, and such the scene, on 
the banks of the mighty Mississippi, on the 9th of December, 
1763. 

1* 



10 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

The party who were sending forth their songs of joy were 
none others than Pierre de Laclede and a half dozen sturdy 
voyageurs, who were prospecting the country for the purpose of 
selecting some point, contiguous to the mouth of the Missouri 
river, suitable for a depot for merchandise. M. Laclede was 
the acting manager for a company of merchants, who, at that 
time, had obtained a monopoly of the Indian fur trade on the 
Mississippi and Missouri rivers. Passing by the then more ex- 
tensive towns and villages, which dotted here and there, though 
miles apart, the banks of the majestic Mississippi ; here he 
planted his tent- poles, and felled the trees to clear the spot, 
which in his prophetic soul he declared should "prove, in time, 
to be one of the greatest towns in America." 

Our party remained here for several days, encamped upon 
the spot where Barnum's Hotel now stands, and having " bro- 
ken sod" they named the site St. Louis, in honor of the French 
King, Louis XV. Finding the winter advancing with rapid 
strides, they set out on their return to Fort Chartres. On his 
arrival at that point, M. Laclede set about making preparations 
for the settlement of his new post at an early a day as possible. 
He dispatched a couple of young men from New Orleans, Auguste 
and Pierre Chouteau, with a suitable outfit of men and materials, 
and soon followed himself. They arrived here on the 14th day of 
February, 1764, and at once took possession of their old camp- 
ing ground. M. Laclede's whole soul was engaged with the 
idea that he had selected the very spot destined to be the com- 
mercial emporium of the West, and although he was not per- 
mitted to see his prophecies fulfilled, his descendants have 
lived to see it rise to the proud position, which he, in his then 
supposed to be " castle in the air building," allotted it. Since 
his day it has progressed in all the arts of civilization. The 
buffalo hunting ground has become the site of busy thrift, 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 11 

and on Mill creek now stands a manufactory of the " staff of 
life." Where was a vast forest of huge trees, now stand pala- 
tial dwellings or gigantic storehouses. Churches erect their 
spires towering to Heaven, and, with the gifts of princes and 
princesses, they are decorated to the glory of the God who de- 
creed us the greatness we possess. Our seminaries are estab- 
lished, and our schools founded, under liberal patronage and 
magnificent endowments. Our newspapers circulate to the 
ends of the earth, and our honorable and upright merchants 
trade with credit, and are sought in traffic by their brethren of 
the "ilk," wherever ships do trade or men do wander. 

This city, St. Louis, which, within the life of a man almost, 
was a barren waste, settled by Indians and Missouri boatmen, 
to-day boasts on the assessor's books an estimated valuation 
of sixty-six millions of taxable property. Since 1853, when 
she had thirty-nine millions of such property, she has doubled 
her capital and her population. What, then, are her prospects 
in the future? Established as the city of the Mississippi Val- 
ley, known as a vast commercial emporium, regarded for 
years as advancing more rapidly than any other western mart, 
what is her destiny ? From the history of the past, present 
ages glean the glory of the passing and future. If this be 
true, what a magnificent end is in store for us ! 

Adam Smith, when he wrote that great and lasting monu- 
ment of human research, which treats on " Political Economy," 
set out with the remark, that a great city must have for a foun- 
dation, Agriculture, Commerce and Manufactures. He tells us 
that, to a certain finite extent, a city might be successful in two, 
or even one of these ; but to achieve great and permanent 
wealth and lasting prosperity, all these elements must combine 
within its province. St. Louis possesses all these, and more. 



12 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

With them she stands erect and points to their foster parent, 
Industry, and all and each of these she cherishes and upholds 
to a remarkable degree. In the centre of an agricultural and 
mineral region as vast as rich, and whose richness is not ex- 
celled by any soil of equal scope upon God's footstool, sur- 
rounded with every material necessary to manufactures, and 
situated advantageously at the central point of the navigation of 
the mighty "Father of Waters," with the restless Missouri 
running by her limits, what else can she do than increase in 
greatness, till she becomes one of the cities of the world? 

Nature has with lavish hand bestowed her gifts upon the cho- 
sen mound. To our west, within our very grasp, lie extensive 
beds of mineral ore and coal. Here are fine forests of timber 
and fertile lands for tillage and for pasture. There lies the 
route of the immense emigration to the land of Deseret, to the 
wide- spreading plains, and to the golden sands of California. 
There is the trail of the Santa Fe and the Indian trader, and 
there, too, is the valley of the Missouri. On our left stretches 
the rich valley of the Maramec, and yet further on the valleys of 
the Gasconade and the Osage. The Maramec and the Gas- 
conade endowed with mighty forests of the yellow pine ; the 
eighteen thousand square miles on the Osage, teeming with, 
and belching forth its minerals, and bursting with the richness 
of its agricultural resources. Add to the catalogue, among its 
very many advantages, the fertile territories of the Indian 
tribes, the future Eden of America, the great plains and their 
countless herds, the new State of Mexico, the mountains and 
the territory of Oregon, and say, what more can she need? 

From the time of its establishment up to the year 1768, St. 
Louis had grown apace. The population had become settled ; 
they had erected dwellings of a comfortable character, and had 
improved and cultivated the neighboring lands. Everything, 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 13 

in short, connected with their prospects, warranted the antici- 
pation of a peaceful and happy existence. 

The mildness of the form of government, the liberal spirit 
with which grants of valuable lands were made, in connection 
with the advantages which the trade of the country presented, 
soon attracted immigration from the Canadas and Lower Lou- 
isiana. Settlements were formed along the Missouri and Mis- 
sissippi rivers ; and as early as 1767, Vide Poche, or Caron- 
delet, was founded by Delor de Tregette. In 1776 Florissant, 
afterwards St. Ferdinand, in honor of the king of Spain, 
was founded by Beaurosier Dunegant ; and in 1769 Lea 
Petites Cotes, now St. Charles, was established by Bianchette 
Chasseur ; and numerous other small settlements sprang up 
on the borders of the two rivers before named and in the inte- 
rior of the country. 

In February, 1779, the inhabitants became alarmed, owing 
to the rumored movements of the northern Indians, and for the 
better security of life and property commenced the erection of 
temporary works for defence. The territory on which St. 
Louis stood — that on which several other towns had been 
located — and the surrounding country were claimed by the Illinois 
Indians ; but they had acquiesced in the intrusion of the whites 
upon their hunting grounds, and had never molested them ; but 
when the rumor of an attack upon the town began to spread 
abroad, the people became alarmed for their safety. The 
town was almost destitute of works of defence, but the in- 
habitants, amounting to a little more than one hundred men, 
immediately proceeded to enclose it with a species of wall, 
framed of the truuks of small trees, planted in the ground, the 
interstices being filled up with earth. The wall was some 
five or six feet high. It started from the half ?noon, a kind 
of fort in that form, situate on the river near the present Float- 
ing Docks, and ran from thence a little above the brow of the 



14 . SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

hill, or what might now be called Fifth street, until it reached 
the river at a short distance below the present gas works. 
Three gates were formed in it, one near the lower end, about 
where Second street now runs, and two others on the hill, at the 
points where the roads from the north-western and south- 
western parts of the common fields came in. At each gate was 
placed a heavy piece of ordnance, kept continually charged and 
in good order. Having completed these works and hearing no 
more of the Indians, it was supposed that the attack had been 
abandoned. Winter passed slowly away, and spring came ; 
still nothing was heard of the Indians. The inhabitants were 
led to believe that their apprehensions were groundless, from 
the representations of the commandant, Leyba, who did every 
thing in his power to dissipate their anxiety, assuring them 
that there was no danger, and that the rumor of the proposed 
attack was false. The month of May came, the labor of plant- 
ing was over, and the peaceful and happy villagers gave them- 
selves up to such pursuits and pleasures as suited their taste. 

In May, 1779, numerous bands of Indians, living on the 
lakes and the Mississippi — Ojibeways, Menominees, Winneba- 
goes, Sioux, Sacs, &c, together with a large number of Cana- 
dians, amounting in all to upwards of fourteen hundred, assem- 
bled on the eastern shore of the Mississippi river, a mile or so 
above St. Louis ; and having crossed the river on the 26th day 
of May, they made an attack on that portion of the men who 
were engaged in the fields. The citizens of St. Louis repelled 
the attack with spirit and bravery ; but the greater portion of 
a company of militia, that had been brought from Ste. Gene- 
vieve to assist in repelling any attack, acted in a most cow- 
ardly manner, and hid themselves in garrets and cellars during 
the attack. Lieutenant Gov. Leyba, who, it is shrewdly sus- 
pected, bad been bribed by the British, was guilty of the most 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 15 

open acts of treachery. From 18 to 20 of the citizens were 
killed and a number wounded ; but we are unable to learn that 
the assailing party suffered any loss. This epoch forms an 
important era in the history of St. Louis, and has been ever 
since designated by the inhabitants, as the " year of the blow" — 
*■' L'annee de coup." 

Leyba, aware that representations of his course had been 
specially forwarded to New Orleans to the Gov. General, and 
unable to bear up against the disgrace that he knew awaited him, 
and urged on by the scorn and contempt of the inhabitants, 
committed suicide. Upon his death, Cartabona performed the 
functions of government until the following year, when Cruzat 
returned to St. Louis, and assumed the command as Lieut. 
Governor a second time. 

It was during the second administration of Cruzat that was 
witnessed the rise of the Mississippi river, which formed an epoch 
with the ancient inhabitants, and which from its extent was call- 
ed "the year of the Great Waters" — L'annee des Grandes Eaux. 
The river rose thirty feet above the highest water- mark ever 
known. The town of Kaskaskia was nearly swept away ; the 
low lands on the eastern shore of the Mississippi, as far back as 
the bluffs, were so completely overflowed that men went through 
the woods to Kaskaskia in barges and boats. 

On the 9th day of November, 1809, two-thirds of the tax- 
able inhabitants of the village of St. Louis presented their hum- 
ble petition to the Court of Common Pleas for this district, with 
which Court the Honorable Legislature of the Territory of 
Louisiana, by " an act concerning towns in their territory," 
had left discretionary power, to be incorporated as a town, and 
on that day signed by the Judges of the Court, to-wit : Silas 
Bent, President, and Bernard Pratte and Louis Labeaume, 
Associates. A charter was granted, giving the necessary fran- 



16 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

chises and creating the certain officers proper to regulate a 
municipal government. These officers were named trusteeships, 
and were composed of! five persons, to be elected by the vote 
of the tax-payers. The limits were as follows : " Beginning 
at Antoine Roy's mill on the bank of the Mississippi ; thence 
running sixty arpens west ; thence south on said line of sixty 
arpens in the rear, until the same crosses to the Barriere De- 
noyer ; thence due south until it comes to the Sugar Loaf ; 
thence due east to the Mississippi ; from thence, by the Missis- 
sippi, to the place mentioned." 

We find that our town was but small, for by reference to the 
census list we see that the population of St. Louis in 1810 
was only fourteen hundred. 

Thenceforward prosperity, before dawning, blossomed, until 
in 1820 the population reached 4,132 ; — 1830 saw an increase 
of fifty per centum, when the growth in people rose to 6,694, 
and so on to this day as follows : 

Population of St. Louis in 1820 4,123 

" « « 1830-- 6,694 

« « " 1840 16,649 

" « « 1850 74,439 

" " < 1852 94,000 

" « « 1857 150,276 

So in like proportion did the soil and the city grow in wealth 
and worth ; the following being the assessed valuation from 
year to year, for the following years, as certified to by the 

Assessors ; 

1840 • $8,682,506 00 

1842 • 12,101,018 00 

1844 13,999,914 50 

1846 15,055,720 99 

1848 19,506,497 85 

1850 29,676,649 24 

1851 34,433,529 21 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 17 

1852 $38,281,668 96 

1853 39.397,186 33 

1855 42,991,812 00 

1856 59,609,285 00 

1857 (estimated) 65,570,213 00 

While she progressed thus rapidly in wealth, so she advanced 
in the liberality of her charters. The people remained content 
with their trustees, elected by the popular vote, until January, 
1815, when they prayed the Legislative head to grant an exten- 
sion of power to their executive officers. Then provision was 
made for the laying out of streets and their being opened ; and 
to the Trustees was delegated the power of licensing ferries. 

In December, 1822, St. Louis, proud in her advancement, 
applied to be incorporated as a city, and at the Legislative ses- 
sion of that year her petition was granted. On the twenty- 
second day of that month the town became a city, and to her 
was given " a Mayor, Aldermen, and citizens," with perpe- 
tual succession, a common seal, and all other immunities, fran- 
chises and conveniences of a city proper. Nine members 
constituted the Aldermanic legislature ; to them were delegated 
the duties of conservators of the peace, and with them was de- 
posited the right to tax property, save and except wearing ap- 
parel, necessary tools, or implements of trade. The office of 
Register was appointed, as a sort of historian of the deeds of 
the Mayoralty, and preserver of musty records. A city con- 
stable was also provided for, who might execute and return all 
process issued by the executive or legislative departments of 
the civic administration. 

In 1831 this act was added to, and some further privileges 
were extended to her citizens. An Assessor was named as be- 
ing an officer of the government, and due provision was made 
to give him plenty of business by regulating the power to open, 
widen, regulate and pave streets, alleys and lanes. 



18 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

In 1817, the General Pike, the first steamboat that ever 
ascended the Mississippi river, made her appearance at St. 
Louis. Those who lived here at the time can well remember 
the fear and consternation of the people who saw the craft 
breasting the sturdy current of the river without the help of 
sail or oar, and they also bear in recollection the execrations 
and forebodings of the nervous and hardy vowgeurs, who felt 
and knew that the days of the ivarp and cordclie, and of the 
red feather in the czp, were to pass away and be numbered 
with other reminiscences of early days on the Mississippi. 

We find the following in the Missouri Republican, published 
in 1826, and transfer it to these pages on account of its re- 
trospective value : 

" A lapse of twenty years, during which I have had a resi- 
dence in this rising town, have effected so wonderful a trans- 
formation in its appearance and prospects, that I can not bet- 
ter employ a leisure hour than by giving you my reminiscences 
of the intervening time. Twenty years ! In this brief period 
the whole face of our country — its laws, manners, customs, 
morals, every thing — has undergone a change as salutary as it 
is surprising. 

" Twenty years ago, scarcely any one, in his wildest specu- 
lations, thought of the eminence to which this flourishing town 
has already attained. Then, it did not appear to possess even 
the germ of the materials which have since been so successful- 
ly used in making it the mart of commerce and the seat of 
plenty. Then, with some exceptions, it was merely the resi- 
dence of the indolent trader or trapper, or more desperate ad- 
venturers. (I am speaking here of the most numerous body 
of its inhabitants.) Then, there were no indications of public 
spirit, or any desire other than that of accumulation with the 
least possible exertion. Twenty years ago, there were no brick 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 19 

buildings in St. Louis ! The houses were miserably construct- 
ed — comfortless and tasteless. They were generally of wood, 
built in a fashion peculiar to the country, and daubed with mud. 
There were, however, some of the better order, belonging to the 
first settlers of the town, but whose massive walls of stone were 
calculated to excite the wonder of the modern beholder, giving 
the idea of an antique fortress rather than that of the residence 
of secure and light-hearted Creoles. What was then called 
Chouteau's hill, but which has since lost that distinctive appel- 
lation in the change it has undergone, was nothing else than a 
barren waste, over which the wind whistled its unobstructed 
course ; if we except only an occasional cumbrous fortification, 
intended for defence, and evidencing the poverty of the coun- 
try in military, as in other talent. These, the only monuments 
of that rude age, are now nowhere to be seen. Then, and for 
a long while after, the streets were intolerably bad — resembling 
the roads in Ohio, where it is related of a man, that his hat 
was taken from his head just as he was about disappearing 
forever in the regions of mud. 

"Twenty years since, and down to a much later period, the 
commerce of the country was carried on in Mackina batteaux 
and keel- boats. A voyage performed in one of these latter 
kind was a fearful undertaking ; and the return trip from 
New Orleans was considered an expeditious one if made in 
ninety days. When an increase of commerce took place, our 
streets were thronged with voyageurs, of all ages, countries 
and complexions. They were a source of constant trouble to a 
weak and inefficient police, with whom they delighted to ' kick 
up a row.' Deprived, by the introduction of steamboats, of 
their usual means of living, and, like the savage, averse to set- 
tled life, they have almost entirely disappeared. At the time 
of which we write, the traveller who made a journey to the At- 



20 [sketch BOOK 01 ST. LOUIS. 

lantic States, did not resolve upon it without mature delibera- 
tion. When this had been done, weeks, sometimes months of 
preparation were required. Kind wishes for a prosperous jour- 
ney and safe return were then offered — all, however, prepos- 
sessed with a foreboding that he would be seen no more. It 
then required from thirty to forty days to travel to Philadel- 
phia. Then, the fashions of the town were simple and devoid 
of that refinement which now marks them. The natural dimen- 
sions of a belle were not then screwed, by the aid of a milliner, 
into a decanter-like shape, possessing neither comeliness nor 
gentility. False hair did not decorate the head — false teeth 
fill the mouth ; nor was the vinegar -barrel exhausted to reduce 
them to a proper size. Females appeared as nature made 
them, and were not loved the less for being so. In those days, 
it could not be said of a man that a ' tailor made him' — be- 
cause he was often seen dressed in tight leather unmentionables, 
and these surmounted by a blanket capote. The morals or 
religion of the people can not be defined. They had, it is true, 
vague notions of such things, but they were of so quiescent a 
character as easily to be set aside when placed in opposition to 
their pleasure or their interest. There was but one church, 
and after a resort to this, it was no uncommon thing to pass the 
remainder of the Sabbath evening in dancing, or whist. It 
then contained, at most, but a few hundred people. 

"Now, \ look upon this picture.' We are, comparatively, 
a wealthy, moral and fashionable people. Our town is but in 
its infancy — is prospering and will go on to prosper. Its citi- 
zens are intelligent, enterprising and industrious. At every 
corner, and in every nook, houses, great and small, are built 
up, and finished, before you are aware that they have been com- 
menced. Real property has advanced at an astonishingly rapid 
rate. Houses are going up in every direction on ' Chouteau's 



SKETCH BOOK OF ,-T. LOl 21 

Hill ;' and From the magnitude of the buildings, the width and 
regularity of the streets, and the delightful view afforded of 
the river and adjacent country, the hill must become a charm- 
ing place of residence. The court-house, estimated to have 
cost fourteen thousand dollars, is a handsome edifice, and re- 
flects much credit upon the architect who designed it. The 
market and town-house, erected at a cost of #20,000, and 
now nearly finished, is another ornament of the city. Of other 
public buildings, the Presbyterian and Episcopal churches take 
the next rank — and a Methodist church is now being erected, 
the one heretofore used not being large enough for the congre- 
gation. The Catholic Cathedral, as you see it, is the mere 
shell of what it was designed to be, and is a very unfanciful 
affair. It was originally intended to add two wings to the pre- 
sent building to give it shape and proportion. This design, I 
am told, has been relinquished, and it ki now the intention of 
the society to erect another structure near the site of the pre- 
sent one, which is to be demolished. The Baptist church is an 
uncouth building, although put up at great expense. It has 
been perverted from its rightful uses, can be of little benefit, 
and ought to be taken down. In other public buildings, the 
town IE deficient. A college edifice has been erected, four sto- 
ries high, in which a liberal French education can be acquired. 
More regard should, however, be paid to education generally — 
provision for which has been liberally made by the government. 
" St. Louis contains about 6,000 inhabitants, and the State 
probably 120,000. No probable estimate can be formed of the 
amount of capital employed in its trade. It may be sufficient 
to say, that it is the depot from whence the citizens of this 
and the adjoining State receive their supplies of necessaries and 
luxuries — for which they dispense their money liberally. It is 
here that the wealth arising from the fur trade is concentra- 



22 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

ted, and here they obtain their annual supplies. The greater 
part of the riches derived from the lead mines on the Upper 
Mississippi fall into our lap, in exchange for our commodities. 
It is selected as the most favorable place for the repair of 
steamboats, and many annually visit us for that purpose — al- 
though it is but twelve or thirteen years since the first of these 
vessels, rudely constructed from a keel-boat, glided into our 
port. It is becoming the resort of the residents of the South, 
who choose to spend their summers in a less glowing climate 
than their own. Useful manufactories are establishing daily. 
To crown all, health, that great boon, has been enjoyed here 
for several years past as extensively as in any other town of 
the Union. 

"Imperfect as this sketch is, you can not but see and ac- 
knowledge the advantages St. Louis possesses. Its course is 
onward. Nothing can retard its advance in wealth and popu- 
lation. 

"It may excite your sympathy when you are told, that, in 
the short lapse of twenty years, property has almost entirely 
changed hands — the rich have become poor, and the more for- 
tunate have succeeded to their riches. Their names and their 
estates have, indeed, been written on water, and are now only 
referred to as evidences of imprudence — * to point a moral or 
adorn a tale."' 

Previous to the year 1829 there was no Protestant church in 
St. Louis ; but in that year the first Presbyterian church was 
built, and the Kev. Artemas Bullard engaged as the minister. 
Mr. Bullard was a man of rare attainments and a great favorite 
with all classes of people. There were places where the 
Methodists, Presbyterians, Baptists, Universalists, etc., held 
divine service, but none of them possessed church edifices until 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 23 

this year. So we learn from an article in the Western Journal 
and Civilian. 

In 1844, another flood, equalling that which took place in 
the days of Cruzat, visited the Mississippi. The river rose 
rapidly until the entire American bottom was submerged. Steam- 
boats and all description of water-craft were to be seen wind- 
ing their way through the woods opposite the city, conveying 
passengers to and from the coal hills on the Illinois shore, a 
distance of about twelve miles. This flood was very disastrous 
in its character, almost totally destroying Illinoistown, which 
had become quite a village of several thousand inhabitants. 
The damage done was immense, while not a few lives were 
lost among those who were unable or unwilling to leave their 
homes until it was too late. Houses, barns, and fences were 
swept away by the ruthless torrent, while thousands of hogs, 
horses, cattle, sheep, fowls, &c, were drowned; and when the 
waters subsided the entire American bottom was one scene of 
ruin and destruction ; distress was plainly visible on all sides ; 
many who, before the flood, were in affluent circumstances, 
found themselves beggared. This was a marked event upon 
the trade of St. Louis, and she had scarcely recovered from the 
effects when another calamity befel her. Late in the fall of 
1848, that dreadful scourge, the cholera, made its appearance 
in our midst, and began its work of death ; the approach of 
cold weather stayed, in a great measure, the ravages of the 
disease, although during the winter we heard of an occasional 
case. But as the genial smiles of spring began to fall upon 
the city the disease developed itself in full force, and, like the 
famishing wolf, whose appetite is whetted by the taste of blood, 
it was doubly fierce and unsparing. The general cry was — 
"Hush up! Don't alarm the people! You will frighten 
them into the disease. It is all humbug ! It's only a siight 
sickness among deck 'hands and poor laborers, who eat poor 



24 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

food, and live in illy-ventilated houses," &c. And so it was 
determined to ignore and discredit the existence of the disease. 
But the formidable and insidious malady would not consent to 
be ignored. All the while it was furtively and gradually dis- 
seminating its poison — sowing the seed for a rich harvest of 
death — filling up the wards of the city hospital, and thinning 
the crowds of laborers on the levee. The very small number of 
our citizens who ever took the trouble to examine statistics of 
mortality, began to be alarmed ; but they were frowned down as 
panic- makers, and the disease — the existence of which was ad- 
mitted — was pronounced to be ship -fever, which threatened 
only sailors and steamboat men. 

The disease now assumed a more bold and formidable ap- 
pearance, and, instead of stalking through dirty lanes and filthy 
alleys, it boldly walked the streets. It was proclaimed in a 
thousand forms of gloom, sorrow, desolation and death. Fu- 
neral processions crowded every street. No vehicles could be 
seen except doctors' cabs and coaches, passing to and from the 
cemeteries ; and hearses, often solitary, making their way to- 
wards those gloomy destinations. The hum of trade was hushed. 
The levee was a desert. The streets, wont to shine with fashion 
and beauty, were silent. The tombs — the homes of the dead — 
were the only places where there was life — where crowds as- 
sembled — where the incessant rumbling of carriages, the tramp- 
ing of feet, the murmur of voices, and the signs of active, 
stirring life could be seen and heard. Physicians were kept 
continually on the move — on visits of mercy — going hither and 
thither, with no hope of fee or reward, except that which will 
be awarded them in an after- world ; some reeled through the 
streets like drunken men, from sheer fatigue and exhaustion ; 
many touched not a bed for weeks, their only moments of sleep 
being while going from sick-bed to sick-bed, in hopes that they 
might be the means of relief to some pdor wretch. To realize 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 25 

the full horror and virulence' of the pestilence, you must go 
into the'*crowded localities of the laboring classes — into those 
miserable shanties which are the disgrace |of the city — where 
the poor immigrant class cluster together in filth, sleeping half 
a dozen in a room, without ventilation, and having access to 
filthy wet yards, which have never been filled up, and, when it 
rains, are converted into green puddles — fit abodes for frogs 
and sources of poisonous malaria. Here, you could find scenes 
of woe, misery and death, which will haunt your memory in all 
time to come. Here, you could see the dead and the dying, the 
sick and the convalescent, in one and the same bed. Here, 
you could find the living babe sucking death from the pallid 
breast of its dead mother. Here, father, mother and child die 
in one another's arms. Here, you find whole famines swept 
off in a few hours, so that none are left to mourn or procure 
the rites of burial. Offensive odors frequently drew neighbors 
to such]! awful spectacles ; corpses would thus proclaim their 
existence and enforce the observance due them. What a terri- 
ble disease ! Terrible in its insidious character, in its treach- 
ery, in the quiet, serpent-like manner in which it gradually 
winds its folds around its victim, beguiles him by its decep- 
tive wiles, cheats his judgment and senses, and then consigns 
him to grim death. Not like the plague, with its red spot, its 
maddening fever, its wild delirium, but with a guise so decep- 
tive that none fears the danger till it is too late — it marches on I 
While the disease was raging at its fiercest, the city was 
doomed to another horror— the city was burned — fifteen squares 
were laid in ashes. The fire commenced on the steamer White 
Cloud, lying between Wash and Cherry streets. At the com- 
mencement the wind was blowing stiffly, forcing the boat di- 
rectly into shore, which circumstance contributed seriously to 
to the marine disaster. As we have said, the wind set into the 
2 



26 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

wharf, and although the cables of all the boats were hauled in, 
and they drifted out into the current, yet the flaming vessel 
seemed to outstrip them all in the speed with which she travel- 
led down stream. We were standing to the south of her on the 
levee ; she seemed determined on getting in among and de- 
stroying the fleet of vessels now loosened from their fasten- 
ings and driven about with the sport of the wind and waves, and 
no one on board to control them. In a very short time, perhaps 
thirty minutes after the conflagration commenced, twenty- 
three had been given up to the fury of the flames ; nearly half 
a million dollars' worth of property was destroyed. So devas- 
tating a fire was never known in the United States. So mag- 
nificent a spectacle — but one so full of pecuniary injury to a large 
class of meritorious citizens — was never presented to human 
eye. It was a scene for the painter, which may not have been 
preserved, but which can readily be pictured by any man hav- 
ing a taste for the wild and the wonderful, and the fantastic 
forms and tracery presented in flaming boats, the island forest, 
the houses and the hills in the distance on the Illinois shore, 
and the numberless warehouses, and thousands of people lining 
our wharf. Fifteen blocks of houses were destroyed and in- 
jured, causing a loss of ten millions of dollars. Olive street 
was the commencement in the city, and with the exception of 
one building, the entire space down to Market street was laid 
in ruins. The progress of the flames was stayed by blowing up 
a portion of buildings below Market street with powder ; in do- 
ing this, although timely warning was given, several persons 
lost their lives. A fire also was communicated to the build- 
ings on the corner of Elm and Front streets, which destroyed 
nearly the entire block. The water gave out, and the fire had 
all its own way. The list of sufferers made eight or ten col- 
umns in the Missouri Republican. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 27 



CHAPTER HI. 

HISTORY CONTINUED TO PRESENT TIME. 

The charter under which we are now existing is liberal, 
although sometimes indefinite. It is true that some of the 
powers are not very clearly defined, and that several "coaches 
and six" may drive through gaps ; yet it for the present serves 
its purpose, and, with some little amendment, may be set down 
as a mighty good carte blanche to do as we please. 

In 1851 when this charter was adopted and approved, St. 
Louis had grown up to a fine healthy lad. It included "all that 
district of country contained within the following limits, to wit : 
Beginning at a point in the middle of the main channel of the 
Mississippi river, due east, to the south-east corner of St. 
George, in St. Louis county ; thence due west, to the west line 
of Second Carondelet avenue ; thence north, with the said west 
line of said avenue, to the north line of Chouteau avenue ; 
thence northwardly, in a direct line to the mouth of Stony 
creek ; thence due east, to the middle of the main channel of 
the Mississippi river ; thence southwardly, with the middle of 
the main channel of the Mississippi river, to the place of begin- 
ning." Which district was divided into six wards. She was 
then allowed to maintain, for her protection and clearance, a 
Hospital, Poor-house and Work- house. The City Council, 
now increased to twenty -four members, with two boards with 
officers, as we now find them. The stated sessions, and all the 
powers, of which we shall elsewhere have occasion to speak, 



28 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

were set down ; their right to appropriate was limited, and they 
were generally held to check in their doings. In like manner, 
the particular duties of the Mayor and the ministerial officers, 
heretofore or now created, were laid down, and the election of 
the lot provided for. So additional powers were granted as to 
the improvement of streets, the maintenance of a police force, 
and so on, generally, to the last chapter. 

But experience, frequently, if not oftener, taught the good 
citizens that they had not yet reached perfection. A slip was 
found here and a rent there, and so we find constant appeals 
made to the Legislature for more legislation. Some companies 
were not taxed, and a remedy was ordained March 5, 1855. 
Provision was not fully made for the payment of costs of street 
improvements, and so on the same day was approved an act to 
set aside this source of loss to the ''Mayor, Aldermen and 
other citizens." At the same session provision was made, thus 
far with but little labor for him to perform in that line, for a 
fund commissioner, to reduce the city debt. A House of 
Refuge became, if not a necessity, at least a labor of love, and 
an act was procured establishing that institution. Fires became 
frequent and cisterns were allowed. 

Again the people felt their efforts were pent up in too narrow 
limits, and December 5th, 1855, was approved " an act to 
extend the limits of the city of St. Louis, and for other pur- 
poses." Then she attained to the magnificent proportions 
which to-day astonish the visitor. What had been "out of 
town," became simply " up town." The Boards of Delegates 
and Aldermen swelled to twenty each, and what is now called 
the "extended new limits" came in, on a hard fought polling, 
under the privileges we enjoyed, with at the same time a right to 
help us pay the taxes of our joint affairs. 

So much for the advance in chartered rights. It is needless 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 29 

for us at this time to discuss the merits of our " calf -skins." 
The subject has been before the City Council for some twelve 
months, has been subjected to the scrutiny of certain lawyers of 
the Boards, who have sat on the egg so long without hatching 
a scheme of improvement, that we can well afford to leave our 
opinions unexpressed until some unpleasant stop occurs to clog 
the worthy patriarchs of our city, in some administration scheme, 
when we may say with more effect our say. 

Next in order of importance to the liberality of the charter 
under which we exist, as a municipality, is the mode and method 
of our government. The effect of a proper administration of 
the affairs of a growing community upon its prosperity is beyond 
calculation. The agitation of politics, and the introduction of 
sectional measures into legislation, upon the condition of a 
city, being the abuse of a temporary power, can not but mate- 
rially affect its well-being and check its growth. Should this 
or that portion of such a city be paved or cleaned to the neglect 
of another, it must prevent the general growth, force an unnatu- 
ral strength upon a small space, and cause disease in the less 
respected districts. We are thankful that, thus far, these 
abuses have been somewhat prevented by the size of our Coun- 
cils; that, by equal strength in ward representations, we have a 
city flourishing through its entire extent, and only working to 
exceeding advantage in such spots as a greater amount of trade, 
or more eligible sites for residences of the opulent, warrant. 

Our city's history as a municipal government has been already 
briefly sketched ; how from a village she rose to the dignity 
of a town, and then commenced the adequate fulfillment of her 
destiny by applying for and receiving a civic organization, we 
have seen. Let us now look to those who have governed her, 
and how they did it — with what aids, by what means, and to 
what effect. 



30 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

SUCCESSION OP MAYORS. 

The first charter bears date, already mentioned, December 
9th, 1822 ; since that time the succession of Mayors has been 
as follows : 

DATE. MAYOHS. 

1823 to 1829 Wm. Carr Lane. 

1829 to 1833 Daniel D. Page. 

1833 to 1835 John W. Johnston. 

1835 to 1838 John F. Darby. 

1838 to 1840 Wm. Carr Lane. 

1840 John F Darby. 

1841 John D Daggett. 

1842 George Maguire. 

1843 John M. Wimer. 

1844 to 1846 Bernard Pratte. 

1846 Peter G. Camden. 

1847 Bryan Mullanphy. 

1848 John M. Krum. 

1849 James G. Barry. 

1850 to 1853 Luther M. Kennett. 

1853 to 1855 John How. 

1855 Washington King. 

1856 John How. 

1857 John M. Wimer. 

The appreciation of the people of the services of these men 
is amply shown ' ( by the frequent re-election of many of the 
occupants of the Mayoralty chair. 

POLICE DEPARTMENT . 

Every improvement that is made in the conduct and govern- 
ment of the Police Department is one step gained for the better 
order of our citizens, and for the greater protection of our lives 
and property. Some such improvements have of late been 
made, and although it may be that some men of strong passions 
and hardened hearts have sacrificed to their lusts and criminal 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 31 

intents the lives of others within a few weeks past, we must 
not place the blame to the Police Department, but weigh well the 
chances, and see whether the deeds could have been prevented ; 
and if notfprevented, how the murderer might best have been 
caught. 

The prevention of the capital crime is beyond the power of 
human ingenuity. When the passions that are sternest and 
least to be influenced in^the human heart are aroused, there is 
no earthly power that can subdue the longings for blood. The 
idea of [revenge for^wrongs,'real or imaginary, is so firmly 
rooted in a vicious temperament, that the experience of thou- 
sands of years has taughtus that the vigorous rule of blood for 
blood does not even serve to appal the murderer, or to save the 
victim. How then can officials, unaware of the thoughts of 
erring humanity, preventjt ? Who can stay the hand uplifted 
to'seek a brother's life^? The prevention of homicide is in the 
law, as its punishment is in the hands of the servants of that 
law. 

The Police force at present consists of Major Rawlings, the 
City Marshal, two Captains, four Assistant Captains, ten Ser- 
geants, one hundred and ten night watchmen and ninety-five 
day men, all of whom are immediately responsible to the 
Mayor. The first is appointed under the new ordinance, with a 
salary of $3000 for one year. The remaining officers hold 
their positions for the same period, and receive pay as follows: 
Captains $1000, Assistant Captains $800, Sergeants $650 and 
Policemen $600. Little enough pay when we remember how 
nearly the pay came up to these present prices years ago, when 
food and clothing was procurable at rates at least fifteen per 
cent, cheaper than now. 

This jurisdiction extends more immediately over the city, 
including a population of 126,276 — of whom 2,822, being 



32 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

negroes and mulattoes, are under special laws — all residing and 
doing business in 14,260 buildings. The extended limits of 
the city give us a superficial extent of nearly sixteen miles, 
divided into blocks, with alleys and intersections. To carry out 
the calculations, allowing that there are 20,000, and the odd 
number living beyond the old limits or the more closely guarded 
portion of the city, that gives for the night watch to keep ward 
over the conduct of 1100 persons per ward, to examine the 
doors and shutters, and note the peculiarities existing around 
167 buildings, not enumerating the care of sundry coal and 
lumber yards, docks and steamboats, covering for each man a 
beat averaging one-fifth of a mile, cut up into blocks with alleys, 
intersecting streets and other obstacles. 

The difficulty is further increased by a necessary order that 
each patrol shall visit each portion of his beat at least once in 
each half hour, entailing the necessity of a walk of fifty miles 
during each term of duty. This does not allow anything for 
sickness in the department, although it is a fair presumption 
that a thousand days' services are lost in the course of a year, 
i. e., that at least three men are on an average on the sick list. 

The appropriations (not including for overdrafts) for and 
expenditures of the department since 1850 are as follows : 

APPROPRIATIONS. EXPENDITURE. 

1S50-1 $27,800 00 $27,638 94 

1851-2 26,500 00 26,499 78 

1852-3 33,500 22 33,441 59 

1853-4 41,217 10 54,541^18 

1854-5 53,675 92 58,444 34 

1855-6 56,643 62 64,487 54 

1856-7 94,000 00 93,366 82 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 33 



CHAPTER IV. 
PUBLIC BUILDINGS. 

COURT HOUSE. 

Among our public buildings the first to present itself is, of 
course, the Court House. This building is only partly finished, 
and is now receiving some large additions designed to accommo- 
date the various courts that sit here, and the offices attached to 
them. The building, which is massive and durable as brick, 
stone and iron can make it, presents a front on four"' streets, 
Market, Chesnut, Fourth and Fifth, and will be, when com- 
pleted, the finest building in the United States. w The appear- 
ance of the different fronts is very imposing, and strikes the eye 
with fine effect. From the dome, one of the most beautiful of 
nature's panoramas is to be seen. The eye can take in at a 
glance the extent of territory spread out for miles upon every 
side. The city lies at your feet, with its busy and industrious 
population; the river, with its dark bosom -dotted by palatial 
steamers, flows by on the east ; the^long trains of cars as they 
thunder along through the American Bottom ; the hills which 
rear their brows against the sky in the west — all combine to 
render the scene lovely and picturesque. The cost of this 
building will be upwards of $1,000,000. 
2* 



3-1 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

CUSTOM HOUSE. 

This building is in course of completion, and will probably 
be finished during the present year. It is built of Missouri mar- 
ble, and is intended to be fire proof. When completed it -will 
add much to the appearance of Third street and be an honor to 
the city. 

ST. LOUIS UNIVEKSITY. 

This literary Institution, situated in an agreeable and airy 
part of the city of St. Louis, was founded in 1829 by members 
of the Society of Jesus, was incorporated by an act of the 
State Legislature in 1832, under the name and style of the 
" St. Louis University," and empowered to confer degrees 
and academical honors in all the learned professions, and gen- 
erally to have and " enjoy all the powers, rights and privileges 
exercised by literary institutions of the same rank." It has 
experienced uninterrupted prosperity, and has progressively im- 
proved so as to offer advantages not surpassed in the West. 

The Institution possesses a valuable Museum, which contains 
a great variety of specimens both of nature and of art, col- 
lected from various quarters of the Globe, but especially from 
our own country ; also a very beautiful and complete Philosoph- 
ical and Chemical Apparatus. The Library belonging to the 
Institution numbers over 15,000 volumes, embracing almost 
every branch of literature and science, and containing many very 
rare and interesting works. The select libraries, open to the 
students, form a collection of over 3,000 volumes. 

To improve the students in public speaking, debating socie- 
ties have been organized, and for years have been in very suc- 
cessful operation. To add solemnity to the celebration of reli- 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 35 

gious, national and literary festivals, and to afford the qualified 
student the advantages of performing a part in concert music, 
the Philharmonic Society has been established. 

Under the guidance of Father Koning, the polite and gentle- 
manly Professor of Chemistry, we spent a couple of hours in 
looking through the Library and Museum. We found many 
quaint and ancient volumes, some printed as long ago as 1542. 
We were shown a MS. that was written before the invention of 
printing. The execution of it was faultless, the characters 
being German text, the coloring being black, blue, pink and 
gold ; all of which, with the exception of the black, (which be- 
gins to fade,) looks as bright as new, while the parchment has 
the appearance of great age. In the Museum we were shown 
the dagger of Cortez, the conqueror of Mexico. This is a beau- 
tiful specimen of antiquarian mechanism. The blade, which is 
about fourteen inches long, is composed of two pieces nicely 
fitted together ; a spring secreted in the hilt causes the two 
divisions of the blade to separate, showing the reservoir wherein 
the poison was secreted. Take it for all in all, it is a formi- 
dable looking weapon. 

No person should visit St. Louis without examining this in- 
stitution, as it is one of the most attractive places in the city. 

CHURCH OF THE MESSIAH. 

Few buildings anywhere can excel, in massiveness and beauty, 
the u Church of the Messiah," on Olive street, under the pas- 
toral charge of Mr. Eliot. This house and ground is said to 
have cost $100,000, and yet there is nothing gaudy about it ; 
it is built of brick and iron, of which metal there was used in 
the construction of this noble edifice some seventy tons of pig 
iron. It is of a very imposing appearance ; the material is the 
very best hard brick, with heavy grouted walls, on the construe- 



36 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

tion of which no pains or expense was spared — every part built 
to last for ages, to go down to posterity as a monument to be 
admired. We have never witnessed such extra pains in securing 
a good and excellent job, as was manifested in the erection of 
this large edifice. It was not built by contract, but all the ma- 
terial was selected by the committee, and all parts done under 
their supervision by the workmen employed for the purpose. 
The ground plat is about ninety by some one hundred and twenty 
feet, and about seventy-five feet high, surmounted by a beauti- 
fully proportioned spire one hundred and sixty- seven feet high. 
The internal finish corresponds with the external, and is really 
beautiful, tasteful, yet devoid of glitter or mere show. 

THE UNION PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 

On Locust street towers up, in stateliness and solemn gran- 
deur, the Union Presbyterian Church, under the pastoral charge 
of Rev. Mr. Homes. This edifice is unlike in its style of arch- 
itecture any other church in the city, indeed any we have ever 
seen. It is said to be the pure " Lombardic style," and its 
solemn appearance, with its internal beauty, produces a fine 
effect. This house was commenced in 1852, the Society having 
been organized in 1850, and dedicated to the worship of God 
in January, 1854. The building is about eighty feet wide by 
about one hundred and twenty feet deep, and the main church 
room is some sixty- three feet by one hundred. The pews, of 
which there are one hundred and seventy-six, are capable of 
seating some nine hundred persons on the main floor, exclusive 
of gallery for choir and organ, and the height from floor to 
ceiling is about sixty-two feet. This church has two towers, 
according to its style of architecture, one on either side — the 
one is one hundred and four, the other one hundred and sixty 
feet high. The organ in this church is doubtless the finest in- 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 37 

strument in the West, and cost, it is said, some §5,000 ; while 
the cost of the entire edifice, we have heard, is $70,000. This 
magnificent edifice, we have been told, was built entirely at the 
expense of H. D. Bacon, Esq.; the Society, of which he was 
one of the members, not being called on to do anything towards 
paying for it until after it was finished and dedicated. He 
then proposed that if they would raise $30,000, he would make 
a deed of the entire property to the Trustees of the Society, 
making his donation for the object $40,000. This noble propo- 
sition was met by the friends of the church, and we recollect to 
have heard it said at the time, that the whole $30,000 was 
promptly raised within three days after Mr. Bacon made the 
proposal. Thus was this magnificent edifice relieved, by this 
benevolence, from any pecuniary embarrassment. 

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 

This church, of which the Rev. Mr. Nelson is pastor, is 
situated on Lucas Place, and is probably the finest church in 
the Western States. The building is eighty -four feet front by 
one hundred and thirty feet deep, and has been built and fur- 
nished in the most artistic manner, with a tower and spire two 
hundred and twenty-five feet high. This is much the tallest 
spire in the city, independent of the consideration that the 
church is located on about the highest ground within the city 
limits. This spire is visible in every direction for many miles, 
and presents a splendid appearance. There are many novel, 
yet useful, improvements made in the construction and equip- 
ment of this noble structure, the cost of which, we have been 
informed, was over one hundred thousand dollars. This church 
was mainly erected through the exertions of the lamented Rev. 
Dr. Bullard, who lost his life in the Gasconade tragedy. 



38 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

FIRST METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH, SOUTH, 

Of which the Rev. Samuel Parsons is pastor, is located on 
the corner of Eighth street and Washington avenue. This 
splendid church is sixty-five feet wide, one hundred and six in 
length, and seventy-four feet in height. The upper floor, or 
main audience room, is about sixty feet wide by one hundred 
long, having a height of about forty feet, and capable of seat- 
ing from one thousand to twelve hundred persons. It is a plain 
but very substantial building, is handsomely finished, and is in 
every way well adapted to the purpose for which it is design- 
ed. While under the charge of the Rev. Mr. Parsons this 
church became a favorite resort of our church-going community. 

WASHINGTON INSTITUTE. 

This institution is now in course of erection, the cornerstone 
having been laid in the summer of 1857. This is intended to 
be in the nature of a high school for boys and girls — rather 
something between the ideal high school and the college. It is to 
be an institution of learning of a high order. The public are 
indebted to the Rev. Mr. Eliot for his spirited efforts in es- 
tablishing this institution. The grounds selected for the college 
buildings are at the head of Washington avenue. Connected 
with this, as a department, is to be "The O'Fallon Industrial 
Institute for Boys," where all who are unable to procure a good 
plain education may be boarded and taught gratis. The fea- 
ture, however, of this department is, that every boy is to be also 
instructed in such mechanical branch as the bent of his mind 
or inclination may suggest. Here mechanism will be taught 
in all its branches, not only in theory but in practice. Profi- 
cients in the various branches will be employed, and shops erect- 
ed for the various branches, and the whole will be a regular 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 39 

school for the gratuitous, yet thorough, instruction of all youth, 
both orphans and others, who may desire, by the acquisition of 
mechanical knowledge, to fit themselves for useful stations in 
society. All who attend this school are to be on an equality, so 
far as payment for services rendered is concerned ; the work 
done may pay, perhaps, for the material used, but all are to 
live together and be supported alike ; and, for the purpose of 
meeting the expense, we understand, Col. O'Fallon has set 
apart lands and lots now valued at upwards of $50,000. All 
who may wish to enjoy the advantage of this school will not only 
be required to conform with all its regulations, but to bring with 
them the best testimonials both as to industry, morality and pro- 
bity. The whole will be under the personal supervision of the 
officers of the Washington Institute. 

GIRLS' INDUSTRIAL SCHOOL. 

This school is supported by the voluntary contributions of 
the ladies who have taken it in hand, and such donations as they 
may receive for the purpose. They take those little girls that 
may be found about the city, whose parents pay but little if any 
attention to them. They do not propose to interfere with the 
legitimate office of the " Orphan Asylums," but if the children 
taken there are orphans, they do the best they canto make pro- 
vision for them, until other arrangements are made. The little 
ones are taken to the house — they are cleaned, combed and 
neatly though plainly dressed, and all the morning is devoted 
to teaching them to spell and read and write ; at noon, they all 
partake of a good dinner together, and the afternoon is employ- 
ed in teaching them all the household duties — to sew, knit, 
wash, cook, &c, so that they may ultimately sustain them- 
selves. At night, they all go to their various homes, except 
those few who, for certain periods, are required to remain in the 



40 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

house at night ; and as the performance of the several duties is 
alternated, so all in their turn perform every part. Thus these 
children will obtain lessons in the practical duties of life, while 
habits of personal cleanliness and attention will be induced, 
much to the ultimate good of all who are there educated. The 
lady who has charge of these children seems well qualified for her 
difficult task ; kindness and attention appear to be the means of 
her success, and I doubt not great good will bo the result of 
this benevolent effort. 

This enterprise has only been in operation for about four 
years, yet it has done wonders, and promises still further to 
grow and prosper in the good graces of the people. They 
are now occupying commodious buildings on Morgan street. 

THE POST OFFICE, 

Which stands on the corner of Chesnut and Second streets, is 
a handsome brick edifice, and answers the purpose for which it 
is used very well, although it is not sufficiently large for the in- 
creasing business. As soon as the Custom House is completed 
the Post Office will be removed to apartments provided in that 
building. The present Postmaster has had a difficult task to 
perform, but has rendered pretty general satisfaction by the 
faithful manner in which he has discharged his duties. 

MISSOURI INSTITUTION FOR THE BLIND. 

The buildings of this institution are situated on the corner 
of Twentieth and Morgan streets, and are handsome and com- 
modious, the. main building being a superior edifice, and is in 
every way creditable to the State. Although unfinished, they are 
occupied and contain now about forty inmates, with capacity 
for one hundred. The pupils generally seem to be as happy 
and contented with their lot as could be expected ; they pos- 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 41 

sess much information and are making rapid progress in their 
studies. In music, particularly, many of them excel. This in- 
stitution has only been established a little over six years, but 
promises to exert a wide influence in bestowing benefits upon 
those unfortunate youths who are deprived of their eyesight. 
The affairs of the institution are controlled by a board of trus- 
tees, while the immediate supervision of the pupils is left to the 
fostering care of the kind and efficient Mr. E. W. Whelan, as- 
sisted by his accomplished wife. 

TIIE CATHEDRAL. 

This is the largest church, in the city, of any denomination. 
It is a massive stone building, and has a truly ecclesiastical ap- 
pearance. The front is of polished free stone, and fifty feet in 
height. It has a fine portico, supported by four columns of the 
Doric order, with corresponding entablature, frieze cornice and 
pediment. The spire rests upon a stone tower, which rises from 
the foundation to a height of forty feet above the pediment, 
and is twenty feet square. The shape of the spire is octagon, 
and is surmounted by a gilt ball and cross ten feet high. There 
is a splendid chime of bells, (the largest in the city,) consisting 
of three — weighing severally 3,600, 1,900 and 1,500 pounds. 
In the tower is also a very large clock, which strikes the hours 
and quarters on the bells. The interior of the church, though 
not showy, evinces true ecclesiastical taste. The splendid altar 
piece, representing the Descent from the Cross (a copy from 
Rubens), first strikes the eye. This was painted by Mr. Pome- 
rade, a St. Louis artist of the highest standing. The altar it- 
self is very chaste and beautiful. On the west side is the throne 
of the Archbishop, over which is a large and splendid canopy. 
Opposite the throne, on the other side of the sanctuary, is a fine 
painting of St. Louis, presented by Louis XVIII, King of 



42 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

France, in 1818, to Bishop DuBourgh, who then ruled this Di- 
ocese. There is a chapel of the Blessed Virgin on the east 
side, and one o£ St. Bartholemew the Apostle on the west, con- 
taining paintings of the Holy Virgin and the Apostle of! very 
great merit. That of St. Bartholomew's martyrdom is a mas- 
terpiece. The Stations of the Cross are small but very well exe- 
cuted oil paintings. The church is one hundred and thirty-six 
feet in length by eighty-four in breath. In the edifice are two 
rows of Doric columns, separating the nave from the aisles. 
There are five on each side, each four feet in diameter and 
twenty-six feet high, painted in imitation of rich marble. The 
organ, which cost over $5,000, is one of the most powerful in 
the country; but time has somewhat injured it. This church is 
free from those side galleries that injure the appearance of so 
many of our most expensive ecclesiastical edifices. As the rapid 
growth of St. Louis leaves this edifice in the business portion of 
the city, it is said that a magnificent new Cathedral is in contem- 
plation, which, from the number of wealthy Catholics in St. 
Louis, ought to, and doubtless will, surpass any such structure 
in the Union. 

THE CITY HOSPITAL — 

Built, owned and sustained by the city — is emphatically 
a charity ; it is in truth a home for all nations, and it is 
astonishing what a congregation of nationalities is there. It 
shows, however, what a point of concentration St. Louis is. It 
is curious to observe in the returns from this establishment 
made to the city officer who has the charge of, and who regu- 
larly publishes those returns, the various countries from which 
the persons come who are admitted there. Not only is almost 
every State in the American Union, but almost every country 
in North and South America, the various countries of Europe, 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 43 

and even parts of Asia are represented there. A short time ago, 
among the number, we noticed one from Syria. This establish- 
ment is indeed 'worthy to be spoken of, and is a noble charity to 
which the city may point with pride, as evidencing the philan- 
thropy of the people. Few hospitals, public hospitals, in the 
United States can compare with this. It is admirably arranged, 
in a high, airy, eligible position, and withal, as clean and neat, 
and quiet as a private dwelling. No pains are spared to make 
it every way pleasant and agreeable, and doubtless much is due 
for its admirable management to the Steward and Matron, who 
sustain an exalted reputation for care and attention. It is not 
to be forgotten, however, that the city, through its Mayor and 
Councils, takes great pride in this important and valuable 
establishment ; and the "Board of Health," representing each 
ward, especially watch over its arrangements, while the regular 
physician and his assistants, paid by the city, endeavor to make 
it all that the city wants — the very best of hospitals. 

The city first built what we may call the old hospital some 
years ago. It was supposed to be amply sufficient ; it was one 
hundred and seven feet long by fifty feet deep, and three 
stories high, divided into suitable wards and apartments for the 
various classes of invalids. But in the rapid increase of popu- 
lation, and the flood of immigration, it has been found inade- 
quate. The original plan contemplated enlargement, without 
disturbing the existing arrangements, and the City Council hav- 
ing passed an ordinance therefor, part of the enlargement is 
now progressing. When the new part, now building, is finished, 
the front will be two hundred feet, the new one being ninety - 
three feet long, three stories high and fifty feet deep ; and 
besides this, one of the wings is also constructing, with a depth 
of one hundred and seven feet by a width of fifty feet, also 
three stories high. This latter building fronts south, the for- 



44 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

mer east, and it is contemplated to have, eventually, similar 
buildings both north and west. This entire structure, built of 
the best brick, is to be finished in the very best and most sub- 
stantial manner, with ample supplies of water, bathing appara- 
tus, and every convenience for the restoration of health and 
promotion of comfort that modern science and philanthropy has 
been enabled to devise, will be found there. Attached will be 
a drug store and other appurtenances, furnished by the city, 
the whole so arranged as to be capable of furnishing ample 
accommodations to some six hundred patients. 

THE ST. LOUIS HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION, 
CUnder the charge of the Sisters of Charity, from Emmetsburg, MJ.,) 

Is on the corner of Fourth and Spruce streets. The buildings 
are ample, and possess every requisite necessary to alleviate the 
sufferings of the sick. The Sisters' Hospital has been many 
years in operation, and was the first establishment of the kind 
west of the Mississippi. It has been judiciously managed, and 
has acquired, as it doubtless richly deserves, the confidence of 
the community. It is not, however, a public charity in the 
general acceptation of that term ; the public use it, but it is 
self-sustaining ; very many go there and pay for attendance, 
preferring it either to a public or private hospital ; and this is 
especially the case with strangers, and persons who have no 
homes of their own, and prefer good nursing and attention, and 
are able to pay for them. There, they can have their room, 
their attendant, their own physician, if they wish it, or, if they 
have no preference, the services of those (among the best) 
who are physicians to the Hospital. 

Institutions of this kind arc of a higher character than is 
generally conceded to them. The principal cities throughout 
Europe, and even in Constantinople, have one or more of them, 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 45 

■where they arc held in high estimation for the manifest chari- 
ties they are daily administering. 

The present Hospital was established in this city in 1828, at 
which time there was no other institution of this class here. 
The ground on which this building stands was the gift of the 
late John Mullanphy, Esq. The family of the deceased holds 
the gift of four charity patients, which will continue through 
the life of the family of the donor. 

Patients requiring private rooms are charged from five to 
seven dollars per week, exclusive of charge of their own physi- 
cians and medicines. A ward is also provided for the second 
class at three dollars per week, in which medical attendance 
and medicines are furnished gratuitously. 

Separate apartments arc appropriated for the blind, insane 
and cases of a chronic character. The number in this depart- 
ment varies from forty to sixty patients, most of whom are life 
patients, depending solely upon the benevolence of the Sisters. 

At the request of the Most Rev. Archbishop Kenrick, other 
departments have been opened, to be devoted exclusively to the 
indigent sick. These will be considered the Thornton Ward. 

The management is under the entire supervision of twenty- 
one Sisters, with one Superior, having also the assistance of 
male and female nurses, as may be deemed necessary for the 
separate wards. 

The following are the names of gentlemen of eminence, and 
Professors of the St. Louis Medical College, who attend to the 
wards of the sick daily : 

Surgeo72s — Drs. Charles Pope and E. Gregory. 

Physicians — M. L. Linton, J. B. Johnson and T. Papin. 

It should be here stated that the professional services of the 
above named gentlemen are administered to the poor of the Hos- 
pital gratuitously. 



46 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

On January 1st, 1857, there were 210 cases remaining. 
From this date to Dec. 1857, "were admitted 1979, during which 
time 1881 were discharged. No. of deaths 160. In Hospital 
to date, (Jan. 13th, 1858) 148. 

THE MARINE HOSPITAL. 

This Hospital was erected at the expense of the United 
States ; it is eligibly situated near the river, just south of the 
Arsenal ; the buildings are stately, and present a beautiful 
appearance. Here are treated, at the expense of the United 
States, those sick and disabled boatmen who have no home 
here, only on their boat, who pay their regular fee, or "hospi- 
tal money," to the Collector of the port, and have a certificate 
thereof. Our best physicians are engaged to attend to the 
unfortunate sick here, and devote much time to this hospital. 

ST. LOUIS MUSEUM, 

The building heretofore known as Wyman's Hall, but lat- 
terly the " Odeon," is now used for the purposes of this insti- 
tution. It is situated on Market street, opposite the Court- 
house, and was erected in 1848, at a cost of some $28,000, 
including furniture, &c. It is a substantial yet ornamental 
building, of about forty-four feet front by some one hundred 
feet deep. The first story is arranged for stores, and is about 
twelve feet high in the clear ; the second story contains the 
concert hall, and is twenty- one feet high in the clear, is fur- 
nished with a small yet ornamental gallery all around, con- 
structed of iron, and a neat stage furnished with splendid 
scenery. The whole room is tastefully fitted up, furnished 
with gas, &c, and capable of accommodating twelve or fifteen 
hundred people. It was in this room that Jenny Lind gave 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 47 

her concerts while in St. Louis ; and it has, from its central 
position, always been a favorite place for concerts, exhibitions, 
&c. The third story is fitted up as an exhibition room, and is 
finely adapted for the purpose ; it is large, airy, well lighted, 
and well ventilated, and is seventeen feet high — while the fourth 
story is divided into three rooms, and devoted to the splendid 
collections of oil paintings, dissolving views, dioramas, &c. 
From this story, which towers high above most of the surround- 
ing buildings, a beautiful panoramic view of the city may bo 
had, especially looking to the east, south, and south-west, 
extending below the Arsenal, and over the city common — while 
a pure, healthy breeze constantly circulates through the upper 
portions of the buildings. We have never examined a building 
better adapted for the purposes to which it is devoted than this 
one ; and it will, we doubt not, repay the liberal outlay which 
has been made for its erection. There are specimens from 
almost all lands — while rivers, lakes and ocean furnish their 
portion. Mr. Bates, the curator, works steadily, quietly, yet 
with all the enthusiasm of a true devotee to the science of his 
choice in the tasteful preparation and arrangement of this 
beautiful cabinet. The collections, especially in the depart- 
ment of Ornithology, are as fine as we have ever seen anywhere ; 
probably finer than can be found in this country, both for 
the great number of specimens and for their beauty, their rari- 
ty, and the tasteful manner of their preparation and display. 
The animals and birds appear as bright, and almost as life- 
like, as if sporting in their native wilds. We almost expect 
to hear warblers sing in the cases. Colors more fresh, pure, 
natural and gorgeous can scarcely be found in the living den- 
izens of the land or the sea. The artless attitudes, and the 
charming arrangement of the creatures, with the effect of the 
whole, fill the careful observer with delighted wonder. We 



48 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

confess that, personally, we feel deeply indebted to the shrewd 
head and hand which have reproduced so beautifully, and dis- 
posed within so small a compass, such a world of natural 
loveliness. Again and again may the observer revisit these 
attractions, and the more attentively and often he observes, the 
more warmly will he admire them. 

We will mention a few prominent features of this beautiful re- 
sort, each of which is well worth the price of admission, viz : 
The great Zeuglodon, Gallery of Oil Paintings, superb Statues 
of Venus and Mercury, Egyptian mummies, Indian curiosities, 
&c, &c. 

Gen. Green, the smallest dwarf in the world, is perma- 
nently engaged and holds daily levees — while the Thayer Fam- 
ily, the only Female Sax Horn Band in the world, are also 
permanently engaged. These ladies are beautiful, accomplish- 
ed, and splendid musicians. 

In the concert room each evening a splendid band of Min- 
strels hold their " Soirees d'Afrique," and convulse the au- 
dience by their side-splitting jokes, witticisms, &c. A per- 
formance is given every Saturday afternoon for the accommo- 
dation of family parties and children. The admission to the 
entire building is only fifty cents. Children and servants, 
twenty-five cents. 

True delights are cheap, exhaustless, and ever at interest. 
False ones are costly and self-destructive. At few places 
may higher enjoyment be purchased than at the Museum. And 
yet, till the grave the sooner receive them, multitudes must 
spend hundreds to satiety and weariness, rather than dimes 
for purifying, revivifying and ennobling bliss. True pleasures 
alone increase by repetition. -To children and youth and to 
those who still retain the priceless inheritance of unvitiated 
tastes, we say, visit the Museum. Visit it often, and there 



SKETCII BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 49 

and elsewhere humbly peruse rather the significant volume of 
nature — her original volume — than those second-hand interpre- 
tations of the Divine will which are made by dogma- blinded 
men. 

MISSOURI MEDICAL COLLEGE. 

This Institution was founded in 1840 by Professors Joseph 
N. McDowell, John S. Moore, and others not now identified with 
it, for the purpose of affording the medical student who design- 
ed practicing his profession in the West a practical knowledge 
of the diseases incident to the climate, as well as a thorough 
knowledge of medical science generally. From the time of its 
establishment until 1846 it was recognized as the medical de- 
partment of Kemper College. This connection continued until 
it was deemed prudent to form a connection with the University 
of the State of Missouri. This step was taken at the earnest 
solicitation of the latter institution, and continued till 1856, 
when, by an act of the Legislature of Missouri, persons practicing 
any of the learned professions were 'prohibited from holding a 
position as professor in this State University ! As all of the 
professors of the Medical Department were engaged in the prac- 
tice of Medicine or Surgery, the continuation of the Medical 
Department of the State University became impossible. 

It was this event which caused the institution to assume its 
present name. A charter was granted to Dr. Jos. N. McDowell, 
Thomas Watson, Wm. Milburn, Archibald Gamble and John S. 
Moore, and their successors, as Trustees of the Missouri Med- 
ical College, in 1846, conferring upon them the privileges grant- 
ed to all similar institutions, and under which they now confer 
degrees. 

This institution is now one of the most flourishing in the coun- 
try, and we are certain the Faculty have not their superiors in 
3 



50 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

the United States, embracing many of the most eminent men of 
the country. We are induced to insert their names for the ben- 
efit of those interested in such matters. 

Jno. S. Moore, M.D., Prof. Theory and Practice of Medi- 
cine ; Jos. N. McDowell, M.D., Prof, of Theory and Practice 
of Surgery; Abner Hopton, M.D., Prof, of Chemistry and 
Pharmacy; Jno. Barnes, M.D., Prof. Materia Medica, Ther- 
apeutics and Medical Botany; Jno. T. Hodgen, M.D., Prof, 
of Anatomy and Physiology; E. S. Frazer, M.D., Prof, of 
Obstetrics and Diseases of Women and Children ; S. G. Ar- 
mor, M.D., Prof, of Pathology and Clinical Medicine ; J. 
Drake McDowell, M.D., Adjunct Prof, of Surgery ; Jno. J. 
McDowell, M.D., Demonstrator of Anatomy. 

The College building is large and commodious, situated in one 
of the most delightful portions of the city, at the corner of 
Eighth and Gratiot streets, and from the dome commands a 
beautiful view of the surrounding country. 

The Laboratory Room is 45 by 70 feet, with elevated seats, in 
order that the audience may be able to witness every experiment 
of the lecturer. The Chemical and Philosophical Apparatus is 
one of the most complete in the country. The common lecture 
room is 45 by 70 feet and 15 feet high, and is neatly furnished, 
the walls being covered with splendid oil paintings appropriate 
for the place. 

The Anatomical Amphitheatre is seventy-one feet in diame- 
ter, octagonal, with a ceiling fifty-two feet high ; light, airy, 
and has ample accommodations for one thousand persons. A 
large Dissecting Room, 45 by 85 feet, well ventilated, warmed 
and provided with tables, gas light, &c, is attached to this apart- 
ment. The Library Room is of the same size and shape as the 
Amphitheatre. It is elegantly furnished, and contains a supe- 
rior collection of books, paintings, engravings, specimens, 
statuary, &c. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 51 

The Anatomical Museum is provided with a large number of 
dried and cut preparations of various parts of the human body, 
elegantly prepared — showing the osseous, ligamentous, muscu- 
lar, vascular and nervous systems ; also a fine collection of 
pathological and embryological specimens — the latter showing 
the various stages of development almost from impregnation 
to birth. Also a sufficient number of monstrosities to give va- 
riety to the collection. 

The general Museum contains an immense collection of fossils, 
illustrating the Geology of the Mississippi Valley in its various 
parts, admirably arranged by one of the best Geologists in the 
country ; a vast collection of minerals ; a magnificent collec- 
tion of ornithological specimens, embracing all the birds of 
North America, with a considerable number from the Southern 
half of the Western Hemisphere, and many of the gay feath- 
ered representatives of Africa ; a good collection of fishes, 
reptiles and mammals ; many curious and interesting things as 
specimens of art and manufacture, with a larger number of 
Indian curiosities than can be found elsewhere in the Valley. 

Visitors in the city can not spend a few days more pleasantly 
or profitably than in visiting this collection. The doors are 
always open, and visitors admitted free of charge, and afforded 
every facility for gratifying a worthy curiosity. 

The medical lectures in this institution begin on the first of 
November of each year, and continue four months. Fees, as 
usual in other respectable institutions of a similar kind. 

MEDICAL DEPARTMENT OF THE ST. LOUIS COLLEGE. 

This College was gotten up mainly through the instrumen- 
tality of Dr. C. A. Pope. It is a handsome brick building, 
with a front of some one hundred and thirty feet by a depth 
of one hundred feet, and is at least seventy- five feet high. 



52 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

This beautiful structure was built entirely by the munificence 
of Col. John O'Fallon, at an expense of about $80,000, and 
is settled, or to be settled, on the Faculty or Trustees, as we 
learn, for the purposes for which it was erected, forever. The 
fitting up — museum arrangements and instruments — cost Dr. 
Pope at least $30,000 besides. This establishment is as per- 
fect in its adaptation to the purposes for which it was erected, 
as enlarged scientific attainments, great energy and persever- 
ance, and ample means, can make it. The museum, especially 
to the medical students, or even to the lover of art and nature, 
is almost invaluable. There are a vast number of illustrations 
of disease in all its various phases, both in wax and painting — 
numerous beautiful plates and representations, which make 
matters palpable to the eye, and impress the intellect. These 
are all, we are told, from the most celebrated establishments in 
Paris, and the collection is still being augmented. Besides 
these, another large and elegant room is devoted to the numer- 
ous collections of natural history, geology, mineralogy, botany, 
&c, &c. Many of these specimens are not only rare but 
beautiful, procured at great cost, and necessarily very attrac- 
tive and useful. We apprehend this collection — although the 
college itself is of very recent origin — will favorably compare 
with the museums and collections for similar purposes in any 
of the older institutions in the country. These institutions, in 
so comparatively new a country as is this distant part of the 
great west, in a city so young as is St. Louis, with so many 
older, thoroughly established institutions to come in competi- 
tion with, argue strongly, in their success, in favor of the ad- 
vantages of our position, as well as the thorough scientific at- 
tainments and the persevering energy of their professors. No 
longer need the people of this valley look eastward for know- 
ledge — no longer need their sons be taught in schools away 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 53 

fnom the seat of the diseases they have to combat in the west — 
beyond the Mississippi; they may be instructed with a skill 
equal to that existing anywhere, and with practical knowledge 
of the peculiar diseases of the country. 

We have long thought St. Louis, as a point for prosecuting 
medical studies, was perhaps unrivalled, standing as it does in 
the centre of the great valley of the Mississippi, its entrepot, 
the place of concentration of the vast multitudes of immigrants 
which pour in here from all lands, and from hence radiate in 
every direction, to occupy these great western regions. Con- 
taining, as the city does, a great population from all climes, a 
heterogeneous multitude, afflicted with all kinds of diseases, 
what favorable opportunities must present themselves for the 
thorough analysis both of malady and remedy ! If to these 
we add the casualties incident to rapid growth, and vast steam- 
boat operations, with the great and very valuable hospital facil- 
ities, it must readily be perceived how great the facilities are 
here for thorough medical studies as well as practice. To these 
causes, we presume, is attributable the fact, that these two in- 
stitutions have grown up here in so short a period, and so early 
in our history, while their greatly increasing classes, show not 
only o. proper appreciation of the skill employed in teaching, 
but is a sure index of the success of the enterprise, and the 
prosperity and greatness of its future. 

THE O'FALLON DISPENSARY 

Is connected with the Medical Department of the St. Louis 
University. The dispensary is called after one of our most 
wealthy and at the same time most benevolent and public spir- 
ited citizens ; for he not only originated the idea, but procur- 
ed the ground and built the house — a very beautiful and sub- 
stantial one — with his own means solely ;|but besides, he has 



54 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

endowed it for all time as a place for the gratuitous relief -of 
the sick poor, with property worth now some fifty thousand 
dollars, and constantly increasing in value. This indeed is a 
noble charity ! here, the halt, the maimed, the sick, the poor, 
will forever be able to obtain medicines and attendance, "with- 
out money or price," "fee or reward;" the property being 
settled on trustees for this purpose, and the endowment went 
into effect in 1856. This establishment has now been in opera- 
tion nearly five years, during which time over twenty thousand 
persons have been treated for various diseases. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 55 



CHAPTER V. 
PUBLIC BUILDINGS (Continued). 

THE MERCHANTS' EXCHANGE. 

The Merchants' Exchange Company of St. Louis, "with a 
liberality that has characterized their whole proceeding, with 
honor to themselves and greatly to the credit of St. Louis, 
whose commercial dignity they so worthily represent, have 
erected a very elegant building on Main street, between Market 
and Walnut, which merits a particular notice in our sketches. 
It is not yet completed, but is so far advanced that its general 
effect may be readily discerned. It is built of a fine specimen 
of the Allen stone, obtained from the quarry near Allenton, on 
the Pacific railroad — a fine-grained and shaded limestone, ad- 
mirably suited to building purposes. The style of architecture 
is Italian, simple, dignified, and in happy keeping with the 
design of the structure, as the palace where the merchant prin- 
ces of St. Louis will hold their daily commercial levees. 

The building stands with a facade on Main street, of 153 
feet width by 70 feet in height. In depth it is 86A feet, with 
a front on Commercial street 92 feet in height to the square 
of the roof. It is divided on Main street into three stories — 
the first, fourteen feet and four inches in height ; the second, 
twenty-six ; and the third, seventeen feet. 

The lower stories are supported by a massive lintel course, 



56 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

and bold moulded cornice, supported by nine principal piers 
three feet by two, with handsome moulded caps and base. 
There are also eight intermediate piers of smaller dimensions, 
similar in architectural finish, the whole having an air of great 
strength, for the support of the structure above. 

The north and south entrances have projecting porticoes, 
supported by fluted and carved columns of Corinthian pattern, 
with bold moulded capitals, with an entablature surmounted by 
a large carved work, in the centre of which is a medallion with 
the device or coat of arms of the Chamber of Commerce. 

The second or principal story is the chief feature of the 
building. It presents to the eye of the spectator on the street, 
a front divided into eight compartments by iron couple-pilasters 
with handsome moulded caps, supporting eight circular arches 
enriched by bold moulded architecture. Between the pilas- 
ters are eight large circular- headed windows, twenty feet in 
height by nine in width, indicating by their magnitude the char- 
acter of the building. These windows are divided into two 
compartments, as high as the springing of the arch, with a cir- 
cular compartment above. The style is one of which our read- 
ers have seen examples in the Union church, in the Methodist 
church on Washington avenue, and in some warehouses. 

The third story has large windows of a similar pattern and 
finish, set on a richly moulded and panelled water-table, form- 
ing the sill of the windows. The entire facade is crowned by 
a massive iron cornice, divided into spaces by large modillions, 
with intermediate panels enriched with ornaments in terra cotta. 
The crown moulding is likewise enriched with similar ornaments, 
representing countenances, said to be lions, but intelligent, 
grave and dignified enough to pass for what they have been 
pronounced by some — the portraits of the President and Board 
of Directors of the Exchange Company. The effect of the 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 57 

whole gives an idea of great solidity, elegance, purity and re- 
pose of form and proportion. The walls are three feet two 
inches thick to the top of the second story. 

Passing into the building, the Exchange Room is reached by 
a broad flight of steps, thirteen feet from the landing of which 
the visitor enters the spacious hall of the merchants, which for 
magnitude and boldness of design will surpass any room erect- 
ed in the United States for the same purpose. By its very pro- 
portions and magnificence, it fittingly symbolizes the extent of 
our commerce, the enterprise of our merchants and the liberal- 
ity and public spirit of the founders of this enterprise. This 
room is one hundred and five feet in width by eighty feet in 
depth. It has a central rotunda, sixty feet in diameter, with 
a height to the dome of fifty-eight feet. The interior will be 
elaborately frescoed throughout, the dome of the rotunda be- 
ing thrown into four compartments richly painted in fresco, 
with large medallions, portraying the four quarters of the globe. 
The south end of the hall is to be fitted with a reading room, 
elevated about seventeen feet above the main floor, and reach- 
ed by a circular iron staircase. The room is eighteen feet by 
eighty, supported by eight Corinthian columns, and enclosed 
by a second tier of columns and tasteful iron railing. This 
reading room is exposed and visible from the main floor. 

The third story of the building is devoted to offices, twenty- 
two in number, felicitously arranged so as to form a square 
around the basin of the rotunda, with a gallery four feet wide, 
protected by an iron railing running around the entire square. 
These offices are constructed with an eye to convenience and 
comfort. They are divided from each other by glass partitions, 
are seventeen feet in height, spacious, well-lighted and venti- 
lated, and easily accessible from the gallery of the rotunda. 
For business purposes, no offices could be more advantageously 

3* 



58 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

located or arranged. The Directors and Secretary are provided 
with very handsome quarters, liberal in extent, finished with 
elegance and good taste, and cheerful as abundant light can 
make them. 

When this structure is entirely completed, supplied with its 
massive oak furniture, and decorated by the painter's art, it 
will be the noblest architectural ornament in the city ; in its 
strength, as substantial as St. Louis credit — in the liberality of 
the division and height of stories, fitly typifying the broad spir- 
ited views of St. Louis merchants — in its general aspect of mag- 
nificence, foreshadowing the grandeur of the city that St. Louis 
is yet to be. Money has not been spared in its construction 
wherever strength or beauty could be attained. It is a build- 
ing that can withstand all the ordinary vicissitudes of time, and 
if not assailed by fire or earthquake, will witness the gradual 
passing away of the present generation of merchants, the ad- 
vent within its doors of another and another generation until 
its thick- clustering associations will speak of hundreds of hon- 
ored commercial names of those gone to their rest, who once 
with busy activity filled the place, and with community of feel- 
ing and of aim laid broad the foundations of the future honor- 
able greatness of the Empire city of the west. 

We should remark in this connection, that this costly struc- 
ture, involving an expenditure of nearly $150,000 for the house 
and lot, was projected with no view to profit, but with the pub- 
lic spirited design to erect a building that might in a becoming 
manner represent the commercial dignity and wealth of the 
chief city of Missouri, and furnish suitable quarters for the 
daily transactions of the yearly augmenting business that finds 
its theatre and centre at the Exchange. 

The excellent management of the Exchange Company, how- 
ever, notwithstanding the liberality of their expenditures, has 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 59 

been such that the building will provo fine stock, and pay at 
once a fair dividend, after paying the instalments due the city. 
The stores on Main and Commercial streets have already been 
engaged at remunerating rents. 

Hall of Merchants'' Exchange. 

Mr. L. D. Pomarede, the artist of this dome, is by profes- 
sion a fresco -painter — peintre en fresque. He has not, how- 
ever, painted this ceiling in true fresco, though the peculiar 
effect of fresco-painting is nearly obtained, with some advan- 
tages that fresco does not possess. The method adopted by 
him is called encaustic, and consists essentially in the use of 
oil colors upon a prepared ground, so as to present a dead ab- 
sorbent surface, avoiding the reflections of light, which render 
painting in oil unsuitable for such works. There are various 
styles adopted with this general purpose, encaustic, distemper, 
and fresco- proper, which consists in using water-colors upon 
the fresh plaster. 

This last— fresco in the strict sense — is in every respect a 
quite peculiar walk of art, and has been considered its grand- 
est walk. It is that kind and sphere of ^pictorial art which 
touches on to architecture and sculpture, and is designed for 
the decoration of great public buildings — princely halls, fo- 
rums, senate- chambers and churches. Michael Angelo pursued 
this branch of art, and is said to have disdained oil painting 
as unworthy of a man of genius. It is only in fresco -painting, 
indeed, that the very grandest achievements of the imagination 
are possible in the art of painting. The figures are large and 
colossal, because they are seen at a great height. Hence there 
is no petty detail admissible. It would be lost. This is espe- 
cially the case when the art is applied to the ornamentation of 
domes and ceilings, where indeed it culminates. The ceiling 



60 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

of the Chamber of Commerce was painted in encaustic by Mr. 
Pomarede within two months from the first stroke of the brush, 
and he composed it as he painted. Of course the design as a 
whole was in his conception. It need not be said that it will 
not do to compare such a ceiling, thus extemporized (as it 
were), with the glorious and consummate domes on which patient 
genius has expended the thought and passion and artistic labor 
of a score of years — works which money could not buy, and 
only the blending of artistic enthusiasm with religious devotion 
could inspire. But the ceiling of Pomarede has its own pecu- 
liar merits, and there is not, perhaps, one of the same size any- 
where that is in some respects so striking. 

The beauty of every work of art consists in its unity with 
multiplicity. The more it is varied and multiplied, so long as 
it still impresses and seizes the imagination and the senses as 
one — as an intellectual whole, the finer it is. Now this simple, 
beautiful unity, is the first thing that strikes in the ceiling of 
the Chamber of Commerce. As soon as you enter the noble 
hall, and lift your eye to its dome, you behold a surface, richly 
ornate, splendid with color and with effective contrast, vigorous 
forms, action, grouping, symbolism, but all forming one en- 
semble — one whole, in harmony with itself, and over all the 
members of which the eye runs delighted, without meeting a 
shock. The design is simple. Four panels in color, very light 
and brilliant, are embraced by cornice work of chiaro-scuro, 
enriched with arabesques, caryatids, and rosettes, while the 
spandrels (triangular spaces, where the ceiling descends in the 
corners of the dome) are enriched by grand medallions, with 
colossal figures, also in chiaro-scuro, or light and shade. 

Now here note the effect of the sober grave- stone color of 
the chiaro-scuro in giving brilliancy and glow to the colored 
panels, and that of the light and thin colors of the panels in 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 61 

giving force and relief to the sobriety of the chiaro-scuro. If 
either of these elements were altered — if, for example, the pan- 
els had been painted in deep rich colors like an ordinary oil 
painting — the harmony and effect of the whole ceiling would 
have been ruined. 

The four panels of the plafond are filled respectively with 
allegorical representations of the four quarters of the globe. 

America (to come to the panels) is a youthful female figure, 
standing on a platform or pedestal. Her tunic is yellow, and 
defines a graceful form ; her peplum is red, embroidered with 
stars ; her air is animated and gracious ; her countenance open 
and inviting, to represent the freedom of America. At her 
feet is the eagle. In one hand she holds the caduceus, or 
or winged rod of Mercury, the god of eloquence and com- 
merce. The arm reposes on the fasces, the symbol of Repub- 
lican majesty and law. The pose of this figure is extremely 
elegant, and the neck and bust are really beautiful. On her 
right hand are representatives of the nations of the Old World, 
bringing the mechanical arts and productions of commerce to 
her shores — a Chinese with tea, a Turk with jewels, a Smyr- 
niote girl with perfumes, an Englishman (much idealized) with 
an anchor and cog-wheel ; behind we see a locomotive and the 
spars of ships, men carrying burdens, and even a monk, who 
transports religion from the old to the new world. On her left 
hand stands a half-nude Indian, with arrows and eagle plume — 
the aborigines ; and beyond approach figures representing the 
European immigration — Labor, half- nude — and three majestic 
women: Germany, with the emblems of agriculture and the 
grape — France, with the sciences and arts — Italy, with the fine 
arts. Germany and France are noble figures, and the whole 
group is varied, finely composed, imaginative, story -telling, 
and full of life and poetry. 



62 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

Next in our order is Europe, another female figure, crowned 
as a queen and sitting on a throne. Her expression is a little 
stately ; her attitude of ease mixed with command ; the right 
hand holds and rests on the sword, symbol of justice and force; 
the left is on a globe, sign of her universal dominion and supre- 
macy ; her tunic is light blue, her mantle royal crimson ; one 
knee is crossed on the other, which is certainly not conventional, 
and is intended to represent the ready life of Europe, which is 
not fossilized into dignity. On her right, Columbus presents to 
Europe three Indians, figuring the New World ; in the back- 
ground are helmed knights, crusaders, plumed cavaliers, medie- 
val figures, rich and stately — the historic Europe. On her left, 
three female figures, representing the arts — Poetry, Architec- 
ture, Sculpture. Poetry is a figure of perfect elegance — a 
lovely face, a head bound with laurels, a full yet graceful 
form. A dreamy, well-drawn aerial personage, float3 in from 
the extreme left, and, by a gesture over the indistinct and misty 
blue, invites Europe to send the arts to the New World. 

Asia comes next, and is opposite to America, to which she 
offers a complete contrast. Here liberty — there despotism* 
A magnificent Turk, in rich Oriental costume, and with a para- 
sol of ostrich plumes borne over his turbaned head by a black 
slave, is the principal figure. Another servant, kneeling be- 
hind him, bears his hookah. Before him, on the right of the 
picture (our left), a Greek pirate, in the picturesque costume 
of the Arnauts, is leading forward a beautiful Circassian girl, 
whom he offers for sale ; in the back-ground some regular Cir- 
cassian merchants (we will suppose) are looking on, among 
whom is a lady, a mother, who, instead of pitying the poor 
captive, is coveting her lot for her own daughter — all in ac- 
cordance with the well-known customs of the East. Still fur- 
ther back, the picture is filled up with elephants, with their dri- 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 63 

vers, loaded camels and distant palm trees. Some persons crit- 
icise the blue aerial tint of the elephants, which ought to be a 
deep and substantial brown, approaching to black, say the crit- 
ics. They might as well object to the whole scene being re- 
presented on the clouds, instead of a solid sandy desert. This 
aerial lightness is necessary in a ceiling, first, to give perspec- 
tive ; second, not to overpower the chiaro-scuro ; it belongs to 
the style, and one might as reasonably complain that Miss Hos- 
mer's statue is not flesh- colored (inasmuch as all real women 
are of that hue) as of the aerial tint of those elephants, which, if 
they were painted after nature in that respect, would seem to 
threaten to come down on the heads of the people below. 

Last is Africa. A female figure of a light tint, like the com- 
plexion of the Nile, with a sort of an Egyptian head-dress, 
pearl- strings on her neck, naked to the waist, and draped for 
the rest with rich, barbaric skirts, is the fourth continent. She 
holds a lance in her right hand, and her left grasps the mane 
of a Numidian lion ; her right hand group is a black warrior or 
king, who offers for sale a female negro slave, with a baby in 
her arms, and having only a slight drapery about the hips ; 
and whose soft features and elegant contours are all the more 
attractive for not being too African. For this, however, the 
artist has ample authority among the travellers, who describe 
the women of Upper Egypt black as coal, but with the most 
supple and seductive contours possible, sweet in features and 
modeled like the finest statues. This slave-woman in Africa 
is one of the most charming figures on the panels, and is uni- 
versally admired. On the left of Africa, are blacks sorting os- 
trich-plumes and carrying burdens ; in the background we have 
more slaves, Arab merchants, camels, ostriches, palm-trees, and 
the blue gigantic crystals of the pyramids piercing the sultry 
sky. A very fine panel, simple but effective, and the inherent 
difficulties of the subject very well disposed of. 



64 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

To come to particulars as far as is necessary — Atlantic, in 
virtue of his ancient fame, is represented by Neptune, bearing 
his trident and attended by a mermaid. Reeds spring up on his 
shore, the waves roll around his island throne. Pacific is an 
ideal figure — bearing a rudder, with reeds and tropical trees on 
his shore ; the form of the mermaid, whose back is turned to 
us, extremely graceful. Her face is turned to us over the 
shoulder, reminding us of the coquetry of the Pacific isles. 
Oregon (we suppose) pours his flood from the urn. Missis- 
sippi is a grand old man, with a beaver and beaver huts 
among his reeds. The eagle is at his side, and he sits at the 
confluence of the Missouri. Amazon is an Amazon ; woman 
to the waist, and nude ; below the hips, which are draped, as- 
sume the masculine type; the hand grasps a spear ; the lama 
protrudes his tall neck and head behind, and the composition is 
balanced by a sister Amazon, sitting with her back turned, 
which affords the artist the opportunity of introducing again the 
finest outline that nature knows. In short, the dignity of the 
subject is perfectly well sustained, and the meaning is well 
explained. 

MECHANICS AND MANUFACTURERS' EXCHANGE. 

The Exchange Rooms of this Association are at No. 63 
Chestnut street, between Third and Fourth streets. The avow- 
ed objects of this Association are the encouragement, develop- 
ment and promotion of the mechanical and manufacturing inter- 
ests of the city. The arbitration of all errors and misunder- 
standings between its members, and those of the community 
having business with them. 

The rooms are kept open on business days from 7 o'clock, 
A. M., till 6 o'clock, p. M., yet the general assembling hours 
are from 11 till 12 o'clock, M. Here are found all the princi- 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 65 

pal builders, manufacturers and mechanics of the city, com- 
mingling together, cementing the bonds of good-fellowship 
■which have heretofore existed between them. Each member is 
entitled to a communication box, the use of the reading room, 
library, stationery, &c, &c, without extra charge. The terms 
of membership are ten dollars per annum, payable half yearly 
in advance. 

The following gentlemen are the officers for the ensuing year 
of 1858 : 

W. Stamps, President, 
N. M. Ludlow, 1st Vice-President, 
E. N. Leeds, 2d " " 

R. M. Parks, Treasurer, 
Henry Weissenfels, Secretary. 

Commitee of Arbitration. — John Andrews, Wm. Barron, 
Philip Wilson, Jas. L. Gage, P. Gregory, Jno. B. Gibson, P. 
Harvey, Andrew Middleton. 

Committee of Appeal. — Chas. H. Peck, Sam'l. Bobbins ; 
W. F. Cozzens, John Evill, W. G. Clark, L. D. Baker, W. H. 
Markham. 

Avocation of Members. — 110 architects, superintendents and 
builders ; 4 hatters and fur dealers ; 60 bricklayers ; 1 wire 
manufacturer ; 3 boot and shoe dealers ; 2 paper hanging estab- 
lishments ; 3 stationers and booksellers ; 6 carriage and wagon 
makers ; 9 stone masons ; 13 lumber dealers ; 8 stone cutters ; 
9 tin and stove dealers ; 3 hardware dealers ; 2 wood turners ; 
7 galvanized iron work ; 15 saw milling ; 4 stone pavers ; 1 
varnish manufacturer ; 9 terra cotta work ; 8 painters ; 6 lime 
burners; 2 cement dealers; 5 gas-fitters; 10 plumbers; 5 
planing mills ; 2 mastic work ; 17 wrought and cast iron work ; 
20 brick-makers ; 11 plasterers ; 8 marble dealers ; 14 compo- 



66 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

sition, metal and slate roofers ; 24 sundry other kinds of busi- 
ness— Total 401. 

Persons not members, residing in or out the city, desirous of 
exhibiting models or works of art, &c, may have the privilege 
of using the large hall for that purpose if acceded to by the 
Secretary or any other officer of the institution. 

MERCANTILE LIBRARY ASSOCIATION. 

This Association has been in operation over twelve years, 
and compares favorably with any similar institution in the Union. 
The buildings erected for the purpose of a Library hall are ele- 
gant, spacious and admirably adapted for the purposes to which 
they are dedicated. They are situated on the south-west cor- 
ner of Fifth and Locust streets, having a front of 115 feet on 
Locust and 127J on Fifth street, and are 87 feet high to the 
eaves, and 200 feet to the top. 

The first story is arranged for store rooms, and is now oc- 
cupied as such ; it is 12 feet high. On the second floor are to 
be found the Library hall and small Lecture hall, the former of 
which is 80 by 64 feet, with a ceiling in the clear of 20 feet ; 
the latter is the same height, with a length of. 80 by a width 
of 44 feet, and has ample room for comfortably seating six 
hundred persons. 

We now come to the grand feature of the building. It is the 
Grand Hall — the most popular place for concerts, lectures and 
exhibitions in the city. It was here that Ole Bull, Mme. De 
Vries, and Paul Julian, held their concerts. It was here that 
the distinguished lecturer and statesman, Hon. Edward Everett, 
repeated his famed lecture of " Washington " to listening 
thousands, and held them spell -bound by his magic eloquence. 
Hero it is that the ladies hold their pleasant strawberry festivals. 



SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 67 

It has a depth of 106 feet with a width of 80 feet, the height 
of ceiling being 36 feet in the clear. A splendid stage is erect- 
ed in the west end of the hall, while from the ceiling is pendant 
a series of gorgeous chandeliers, with upwards of a thousand 
jets of gas, which, when lighted, shed their rays with brilliant 
effect upon the beauty gathered beneath. This Hall is the most 
magnificent one in the United States, and has capacity for seat- 
ing comfortably 2,300 persons. 

The Library is stocked with a large collection of valuable 
books, numbering some 14,000 volumes ; besides having on the 
shelves and files all the periodicals, magazines and newspapers 
of the day. There are a number of magnificent paintings deco- 
rating the walls ; but a beautiful piece of statuary from the 
chisel of Miss Hosmer is the most prominent ornament. This 
is a rare piece of art, and deservedly attracts much attention. 

There are 1300 members belonging to the Association, and 
by reference to the report of the last year's proceedings we 
learn that in 1857, 17,800 volumes were issued to 1193 mem- 
bers, one hundred and six members having taken nothing. 

The following gentlemen are^the officers for 1858 : — 

Matthew'-V. L. McClelland, President ; JohnB. S. Lemoine, 
Vice President ; George H. Loker, Treasurer ; George R. Wil- 
son, Corresponding Secretary ; Calvin W. Marsh, Recording 
Secretary. 

John Christopher, John A. Brownlee, Robert H. Davis, F. 
R. Alexander, Sydenham R. Clarke, Sol. Scott, Jr., George W. 
Tracy — Directors . 

Wm. P. Curtis, Librarian ; Stephen Massoch, Jr., Assistant 
Librarian ; Samuel Clegg, Janitor. 

Mr. Curtis has held the responsible post of Librarian for 
upwards of ten years. He is a general favorite — so much so 
as to have had no competitor for the post he fills, for 



68 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

several years. A more pleasant, courteous and affable gentle- 
man can not be found in St. Louis than Mr. Wm. P. Curtis ; 
and we would urge upon strangers visiting St. Louis a visit to 
the Library Hall. We are sure they will have a better opinion 
of us after having done so. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 69 



CHAPTER VI. 



THE WATER -WORKS. 



St. Louis is supplied with water from the Mississippi river. 
A steam engine of considerable po^er draws it from the river 
and forces it to the reservoir. The water is taken out in the 
upper part of the city, above the entrance of any of the sewers, 
at a place where the river is deepest and the current swiftest, 
and therefore the water taken out is the purest that can be ob- 
tained. The Missouri river imparts its peculiar muddy caste to 
the Mississippi at and below their junction, and although the 
appearance of the water is not clear, and to a stranger is ra- 
ther disagreeable, yet it is nevertheless about the best river water 
in the world. It is said to keep longer, and be sweeter on a sea 
voyage, than the water of perhaps any other stream ; indeed it 
may almost be said never to spoil. The appearance of the 
water when first taken from the river, or when the supply from 
the reservoir has not had time to settle, is rather muddy and 
thick, from the great admixture of light sandy particles, and 
strangers generally dislike to use it ; but it soon settles on be- 
coming stationary, and then is very palatable, and persons soon 
become very fond of it — preferring it to any other water. It 
does not, however, agree with all who use it ; until they become 
habituated. Some of those, especially Europeans, who, after 
a long confinement on ship -board, and a scant supply of water, 



70 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

find themselves in the midst of such a river, and particularly if 
the weather is hot, with power to drink just as much as they 
please, are very apt to be rather seriously affected by its use. 
But soon these difficulties are overcome ; the system becomes 
habituated to its use, the muddy appearance is rapidly forgot- 
ten, and the sweet, pleasant taste renders almost any well or 
spring water insipid in the comparison, and we long for the 
supply furnished by the " Father of Waters." Even the stran- 
ger loves its use ; how much more, then, those who for years 
have used no other ! Supplied from such a source, there can 
be no apprehension of a failure, although it is not to be dis- 
guised that the people are often put on short allowances. 

The Water-works belong to the city ; all the expense of pro- 
curing and distributing is incurred by it, while all the revenue 
arising from the sale, or rather the permission to the citizens to 
use the water, is paid into the city treasury, the city having an 
absolute monopoly in this matter. But although great efforts 
have been made — and are now making — an ample supply of 
this necessary element can not apparently be had. This arises 
from many causes — chiefly the rapid increase of population — 
the extension of manufacturing establishments, and the too fre- 
quent delay in making extensions and improvements, until 
forced by the necessities of the case, and even then only to the 
extent of present supplies. There appears a want of forecast, 
an indisposition to take hold of and surmount difficulties so as 
to make ample provision for being ahead of the demands for 
the future ; a kind of temporizing policy which would not char- 
acterize an effort by individuals associated together for supply- 
ing the city amply with water. But there are difficulties in the 
way, I am well aware, and I am not disposed to find too much 
fault with our " City Fathers" in all thing3 pertaining to these 
supplies, for it does seem almost impossible to keep up with 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 71 

this demand. With a view to the exemplification of our pro- 
gress as a city, regarding the demand for water as a species of 
" barometer" by which to measure, I will present some points, 
contrasting the past with the present and future, and for the 
data on which to base these views I am indebted to Mr. Pritch- 
ard, Superintendent of Water-works. 

The first reservoir was built in 1830 or 1831, on one of the 
mounds on the cast side of what is now called Broadway — near 
the residence of the late General W. H. Ashley. This was 
capable of containing about 230,310 gallons of water, and 
was amply sufficient for the ivants of the city at that pe- 
riod. But as population increased, and, by consequence, the 
demand for water, it became necessary to make an enlargement, 
which was done in 1838. and the quantity was increased to 
about 290,000 gallons. So that the increase in those seven or 
eight years was only some 60,000 gallons ; but during this 
period there was not a very great increase of population. If I 
recollect right, we only increased in ten years, from 1830 to 
1840, about 10,000, leaving our population at the latter period 
about 16,000. Soon after that period (1840) population be- 
gan to flock in, and manufacturing establishments commenced — 
so that the supply was again inadequate — and the wooden re- 
servoir was built on the top of the old one in 1844, capacita- 
ted to contain 409,440 gallons. It soon became manifest that 
this work was not adequate to the supply of the place, nor yet 
sufficiently elevated to supply the higher parts of the city ; nor 
was there a possibility of finding in its vicinage a place suffi- 
ciently elevated on which to erect a reservoir, ample in dimen- 
sions and capable of supplying the high situations. A situa- 
tion was finally obtained about one mile west of the river, near 
the northern part of the city, and here, in 1848, the new reser- 
voir was erected, capacitated to contain 7,968,750 gallons. 



72 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

This it was supposed would be sufficient for many years to 
come ; it is well built of stone, very strong and permanent, and 
answers an excellent purpose ; the only difficulty is, it is not 
large enough ! By this array we see the rapidity of our growth : 
the supply, deemed sufficient in 1844, is increased near twenty 
fold in 1848, and in 1854 so utterly insufficient is the supply 
that the City Council orders another reservoir to be built, which 
is estimated to be capable of containing 32,248,125 gallons — • 
more than four times the capacity of the present, still called 
the new reservoir — built only six years ago. But how long 
will this one now building supply the demand ? probably not 
five years ! And then others will be required of much greater 
capacity ; for we must bear in mind, that the limits must be 
extended at the next session of the Legislature, and the thou- 
sands of people now without, and who do not receive supplies 
from these Water- works, will be incorporated in the city, and 
must be supplied ; besides, there are large portions of the pre- 
sent city destitute. Provision should therefore be made in 
time, and as soon as the City Engineer can place those now 
constructing in use, provision should at once be made for build- 
ing up the other fourth of Reservoir square, so as to anticipate 
the demand. But this, in my opinion, is not the only thing ne- 
cessary to be done in the premises : enlarged ability in the 
pumping apparatus is also necessary in order to furnish a full 
supply. Not very long ago there was put up a beautiful new 
engine, of some one hundred and fifty horse power, and there 
had previously been in use, and still on hand at the works, two 
old engines. These last being nearly worn out, and indeed not 
very reliable, are only used in an emergency. The new one 
is the main support. This is capable, we are told, of pumping 
from the river, and forcing to the reservoir "through a twenty 
inch pipe, about 3,000,000 gallons in twenty- four hours, or 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 73 

say 21,000,000 gallons per week — while the present demand of 
the city for all purposes, is about 5,000,000 gallons for every 
twenty- four hours, during six days in the week ; thus the en- 
gine has to work day and night, interminably ', to keep up a 
daily supply. The main pipe from the engine to the reservoir, 
partly laid for other purposes, is rather circuitous, makes a 
number of rather acute angles, and while it therefore makes 
the distance greater, say at least one-fourth of a mile, than 
if it were straight, increases also the resistance, and pre- 
cludes the working of the full power of the engine lest some 
accident should happen at the angles. Now, let me ask, what 
would we do for water if from any cause this engine should 
become disabled? As it is, we live, as it were, "from hand 
to mouth." 

Seven days working by the engine supplies six days' use ; 
what the engine pumps up on Sunday has some chancet o settle, 
and what is pumped at night furnishes a good head for use dur- 
ing the day ; but mostly the water has no chance to settle ; as 
it is taken from the river, it is sent coursing through the city, 
to be used for all the purposes of life. 

Indeed, in the more elevated portions of the city, it is now 
nearly impossible to get a supply of water, and such as is ob- 
tained seems to come directly from the river. Now, we ask 
again, if such is tho case, with the most powerful engine the 
city has ever had — if no time is given for the water to settle, 
and the supply is inadequate — what would we do if it was to be 
disabled? If a "prudent man forcsccth the evil and hideth 
himself" how should prudent City Fathers act in view of such 
a contingency ? We suppose they would at once cause an- 
other and at least as powerful an engine to be built and put up, 
and lay an independent pipe of large calibre on as straight a 
line as possible to the reservoir, and thus, while guarding 
4 



74 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

against any contingency, furnish a full supply of water to all 
parts of the city — to the elevated as well as the depressed. 
And it seems to us this is only a question of time, anyhow. 
The City Council does not, surely, expect that the present 
pumping power can possibly supply the enlarged reservoir. 
If, then, another must be had, why not procure that other at 
once, and avoid the hazard we are now running ? 

Let the old engines be sold ; they are entirely too small for 
any useful purpose to us, if even at some expense put into re- 
pair, and let us look the difficulty and expense right in the face, 
and at once meet and overcome it. We must have ample sup- 
plies of water, and the people should not be expected either to 
use it as it comes from the river without settling ; nor yet 
should the city require people to pay for what they do not get. 
Many houses now, in the more elevated situations, have not 
one- fourth of a supply, while there are large populous neigh- 
borhoods, both in the north and south, and even in the very 
centre and oldest part of the city, entirely destitute. Our 
manufactories must also have ample and continuous supplies, 
while it is very desirable to cleanse, as far as possible, the 
street gutters, as has been partially done this summer by letting 
loose occasionally the fire-plugs ; and also, while all these things 
demand water, ii requires no small quantity to sprinkle the 
streets and supply the public bath-houses at this season of the 
year. We are well aware, that to keep up with the growing 
wants of such a city as this, spreading as it does with such ra- 
pidity over so great a space, requires great diligence, a large 
outlay of money, and considerable time. And we are free to 
admit, that progress has been and is the motto, and this pro- 
gress is exemplified by a few facts. In May, 1850, the Su- 
perintendent of Water-works reported that there was then laid 
down in the city, and in use, nearly seventeen miles of water- 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 75 

pipe , and also ninety- four fire-plugs ; now, eight years after, 
there is laid down and in use something over seventy -five 
miles, showing an increase in eight years of about "sixty miles, 
or nearly eight miles per annum, of additional pipe laid for the 
supply of the city. And it must be borne in mind that within 
these last eight years much the greater part has been of large 
pipe, say fifteen to twenty inches, of which none, or very little, 
had been previously put down. And it must not be forgotten 
that much time and very extensive works are necessary for cast- 
ing this large amount of pipe, all of which is now done in our 
city. 

In this connection, as illustrativc'of our progress, we wish to 
add a few thoughts on the subject of pipe. 

Formerly, all the water-pipe used in this city was brought 
either from the Cumberland or Ohio rivers. We believe the 
first pipe used was brought from the Cumberland, under a 
contract made with Mr. John Stacker, and these foreign sup- 
plies were continued, unmolested by any home competition, un- 
til some time in 1846 or 1847, when proposals by Messrs. Gar- 
rison & Bro., for supplying six and ten inch pipe, were ac- 
cepted by the city. This broke the charm, and these enter- 
prising home manufacturers commenced to render us, in this ne- 
cessary article, findependent a of ^foreign foundries. True, they 
could not supply the demand, limited as it then was, but they 
made a beginning; they t proved that if "some things could 
be done as welKas others," these things could be as well done 
at this place as at others. And this start made, was follow- 
ed up by others, and in the manufacture of large pipe as well 
as small. In 1849 Messrs. Palm & Robinson, under contract 
with the city, commenced 'the manufacture of twenty inch 
water-pipe for the supply of the new Water- works, and we re- 
collect to have seen the fact stated at the time that their propo- 



76 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

sals were to make the pipe here at a lower price than the same 
was offered to be done for from cities on the Ohio. Two 
things were thus shown — that pipe, large or small, could be 
made here, and made as low or even lower than at older cities, 
at more extensive works. These demonstrated, so far at least 
as these things were concerned, we were approaching inde- 
pendence. About this time, or perhaps in 1850 or 1851, 
Messrs. James Graham & Co. entered into the manufacture of 
water-pipe, and in consequence of Messrs. Palm & Robinson 
engaging largely in making locomotives, engines and machin- 
ists' tools, they do nothing now at water-pipe, and hence the 
whole supply devolves at present on Messrs. Graham & Co., 
who, although steadily at work, can not supply the demand ; 
another establishment as large, perhaps two such, are neces- 
sary to supply the demand for water-pipe, besides the almost 
equal demand for the supply of the Gas-works. 

We do not know what our Water-works have cost ; we do 
not recollect ever to have seen the amount stated, nor do we 
suppose the policy to be to make money for the city by the rent 
of the water ; for, although there might be a loss even by the 
operation, still there should be provided a supply of water, and 
the rate of charge should be equitable but not oppressive ; and 
besides, the city as an aggregate should bear some portion of 
the expense, inasmuch as the public offices and the public char- 
ities are supplied gratis, and the public health and comfort, as 
well as safety, require the use of large quantities of water. 
So that we should not engage in this matter of water supplies 
only as a "revenue measure," or as an operation merely of 
" dollars and cents." But we apprehend the revenue from this 
source will justify even an extension. 



SKETCII BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 77 



THE MANUFACTURES OF ST. LOUIS. 

The following article from the pen of our esteemed fellow 
citizen, Mr. John Hogan, was written by him about four years 
ago. Although many improvements have been made in the city 
since that time, it contains much valuable information, which 
induces us to give it a place in these pages : 

" St. Louis, as a manufacturing city, is yet in its minority, 
I may say, its infancy. 

"A few years ago almost all kinds of goods and manufac- 
tured wares were brought here from other cities, chiefly from 
those on the Ohio. The idea seemed prevalent that this was 
not, and never could be, a manufacturing place. 

" It was recognized as a good place to sell goods, but not the 
place to make them on a large scale. Experience, however, has 
demonstrated, that the latter part of such sentiment was as 
fallacious as the first part was true. And why, let me ask, 
should St. Louis be regarded as not a proper place — a profita- 
ble place — for manufacturing ? Every prerequisite is here, or, 
at least, easily attained here. 

" Let us note some of those things which are most desirable, 
indeed necessary, to be at hand, or easily attainable, so as to 
make manufacturing most productive : 

" First, perhaps chiefest, among the prerequisites for large 
manufacturing establishments, is an abundant supply of food 
of all kinds, and at fair living prices. To manufacture exten- 
sively in all the various branches of mechanism entering into 
commerce, requires an immense number of hands ; to supply 
these and their families, and all dependent upon them, with food 
convenient for them, absorbs at the best a large amount of the 
entire proceeds of their labor. Now, one of the immutable 
laws of trade is, that where the demand is greater than the sup- 



78 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

ply, the price of the article is enhanced. If, then, there is a 
large concentration of operatives, "who from their avocations are 
necessarily consumers and not producers of food, unless they 
are employed nearest to the greatest and most abundant supply, 
they will find enhanced prices, and, by consequence, the pro 
rata of wages over the amount expended for food is proportion- 
ally decreased. But is there any place in the United States 
where there is a greater concentration of all kinds of food, at 
fair, we may say, first hand prices, than at St. Louis ? I 
doubt whether, as an original concentrating and supply- pro- 
duce point, St. Louis has its equal anywhere. 

" And such it must be always, while these vast Western States 
continue productive — while these mighty rivers flow and bear 
upon their bosoms the great vessels that annually transport to 
this mart for sale the thousands of tons of all kinds of produce 
that men and animals consume. Food, food, food for millions, 
for hundreds of millions, may be produced in this great pro- 
ductive West, and St. Louis will always be its vast depot. 
Where it concentrates, therefore, is the place for men to 
congregate for manufacturing purposes, other things being 
equal. 

"If then food absorbs more than a moiety of the wages of 
operatives everywhere, it follows as a consequence that where 
food is most abundant and cheapest the mechanic receiving the 
same wages can save the largest sum from his daily labor ; and 
if St. Louis is that place, then he is here most prosperous. 

" Another reason why this is a proper manufacturing point 
is its contiguity to the raw material which enters most largely 
into, and consequently constitutes — next to the price of labor — 
the largest item in the production of the finished commodity. 

" Where can a greater amount or more abundant supply of 
raw material be so easily concentrated as at St. Louis ? Take 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 79 

this remark in its most minute, or most extended sense, and it 
is still true. 

" There is no spot in the world more productive of mineral 
than Missouri, especially in iron, copper, lead and coal ; and, as 
these metals, and the combinations of them, enter into the most 
kinds of manufactures — especially into the machinery used — as 
hemp and tobacco are among the most important staples of Mis- 
souri, finding at St. Louis their place of sale and shipment, and 
are by consequence in their cheapest form and ready for manufac- 
ture — as cotton, another great staple of manufacture, is abun- 
dantly grown close to our southern border, and can consequent- 
ly be brought here at less cost than to any other point where its 
manufacture can be advantageously carried on — as the important 
article of sugar is similarly situated in reference to the ease 
and cheapness with which the raw material can be placed, besides 
cheap and abundant food for the laborers to be employed 
in its manufacture, it follows, in my opinion, that St. Louis is 
the place for manufacturing. If to all these we add the abun- 
dance and reasonably low price of fuel, which can be supplied in 
much greater abundance and at even less cost, by the various 
railroads which penetrate the vast coal fields of Missouri and 
Illinois, and have their termini at our city, I think we may say 
few places in the Union equal St. Louis as a place for the es- 
tablishment of manufactories. But, once more, it is all im- 
portant for a manufacturing place, that it possess an ample 
outlet for its commodities. St. Louis is surely this point, as 
the entrepot of a vast interior agricultural trade, as the point 
from which supplies of merchandise are received in return for 
that produce ; where else can the great country north, and west, 
and south, I may also say of a large portion east, look more 
legitimately for supplies of various manufactures than to the 
port at which their entire business is done ? And here they do 



80 SKETCn BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

look, and if we do not manufacture ourselves, we must procure 
those articles from other points to supply the demands of our 
great and increasing trade. 

" But why not engage in this branch of business ? Is it be- 
cause of the apprehensions it will not be productive? Doubt- 
less those from whom we buy find it profitable, or else they would 
not continue the business. 

" Large profits have accrued to cities on the Ohio and else- 
where from our trade ; some of them we have built up and sus- 
tained. Ours is their most prosperous trade ; in some instances 
we furnish them the raw material at its cheapest rate, the food 
which supports their operatives at its lowest rates, and then we 
receive the commodity back again, in its most costly form, with 
all the profits added, with double freights added, exchanges, 
interest and insurance added, all of which we should save and 
add to our own productive capital. But perhaps we do not thus 
engage from an apprehended inability to procure the labor neces- 
sary. But this cannot be so, for if we can furnish cheaper food 
and thereby save to the operative a large^partgof his expenses, 
he will save more here on the same wages than where he has to 
pay higher for the necessaries of support. 

" Hence, if suitable inducements are held out, workmen may 
readily be obtained ; besides, there are hundreds of those daily 
arriving in our city, who are artizans in all the branches of man- 
ufacture in the countries whence they have emigrated. Perhaps 
the reason is the want of capital, and the more abundant and 
immediately productive uses in which it can be employed. 

" Well, 1 admit that there is much force in that ; there is so 
great a demand for capital in a young and rapidly improving city 
like ours — so many uses to which it can be put — so few facili- 
ties for those who, although they possess the skill and energy to 
get up such establishments— so few facilities for obtaining means 



EKETCII BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 81 

to carry them through to the remunerating period — that many 
instinctively shrink from the undertaking. If we had the bank- 
ing capital and consequent facilities possessed by cities not con- 
taining one-fourth of our population or doing one- tenth of our 
business, matters would be materially changed. Or if we had 
the advantages of even a suitably constructed 'limited part- 
nership law,' the results wonld be entirely different. 

" Indeed, we should not only have a suitable ' limited part- 
nership law,' so as to enable the man of capital and credit to 
invest a certain part of his means to aid the competent and hon- 
est man, devoid of capital, in the establisment of a business, 
without risking the whole of his fortune in the enterprise ; but 
we need, also, a repeal of our present interest law, so that cap- 
ital may seek investment here without danger, and thus remove 
the industrious needy from the grasp of the heartless usurer, 
who will suck his life-blood away because he posesses no fears 
of the usury laws. We also need a free banking law* similar 
to other States, and these things being had, St. Louis, with her 
other great advantages, will become the greatest of manufacturing 
cities. It is a matter, however, of rejoicing to all lovers of her 
prosperity, that manufactures have been commenced, and are 
being successfully prosecuted, in St. Louis, notwithstanding the 
difficulties to which such enterprises are always more or less sub- 
jected. These establishments are becoming every day more 
numerous and extensive. They have prospered also beyond 
the expectations of their most sanguine friends, and arc found 
most successful competitors with similar works in longer estab- 
lished portions of the country. 



* Since the above was written the Legislature of Missouri has passed an 
act establishing a number of banks, which are now in successful operation. — 
Eds. Sketch Book. 

4* 



82 SKETCH TOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

" There are few branches of industry, few kinds of manufac- 
tures, but what are now being earned forward successfully in 
St. Louis. 

" Here are some twenty extensive flouring mills— perhaps a 
larger number of saw mills ; there arc four or more planing 
mills — some of them equal in extent and character to any in 
the United States. We have here some twenty-five foundries, 
engine and boiler manufactories, and numerous machine shops. 
We have probably the largest and best- managed sugar refinery 
in the United States ; cotton factories whose thread has al- 
most superseded all other yarns in this market, and doubtless 
would quite do so if they could supply the demand. Here we 
have two of the most extensive rolling mills, and arrange- 
ments making for another ; three extensive stove casting 
works — almost precluding the importation of stoves from the 
Ohio, whence we were exclusively supplied a few years ago ; 
three or more foundries engaged on railroad work ; one exten- 
sive locomotive building works ; two or more shops constantly 
engaged on railroad car work ; several very extensive saddle 
and harness works, one of which supplies the United States 
army ; one or more bridle bit and stirrup iron manufactory, 
where are turned out as fine work as can be made in any 
establishment in the world, whether of ' polished or plated 
ware.' 

" There are several extensive saddle-tree manufactories, two 
very large white lead and oil manufacturing establishments, 
one or more sheet lead, bar lead and lead pipe works, two ex- 
tensive chemical works, one or two woolen factories, besides nu- 
merous other works which I have not even space or time to 
mention ; several rope works, two bagging factories, numerous 
tobacco manufacturers, now exporting largely of manufactured 
tobacco ; one large shot and bar lead works, supplying both 



SKETCII BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 83 

the South and West with these articles. And besides, we, who 
who a few years ago imported large quantities of: soaps, com- 
mon and fancy, tallow and star candles and lard oil, are now 
extensive exporters of all these commodities, produced by some 
six large factories and several smaller ones. Thus we have 
progressed in about twelve or fifteen years in the important 
matter of manufacturing. Large quantities of furniture, tin 
and sheet iron ware, carriages and wagons, and agricultural 
implements, heretofore imported, are now produced in this 
city ; while bell and brass founding are progressing finely ; 
and, above all, we enjoy the advantage of making our own 
printing type, which furnishes to all the West an article of 
metallic type, manufactured hore by improved machinery, quite 
as beautiful, more durable, and at the same prices as similar 
kinds are furnished in New York. 

********** 

"We have no paper mills — and it is astonishing what quan- 
tities of this one article are sold and consumed here annually. 
One single establishment here, we are told, uses the entire 
product of two mills on the Ohio, supplied by contracts which 
have existed some ten years, and costs about $100,000 per 
annum — and this is for one office alone. Now, it would be 
almost worth while for some one possessing the leisure, to as- 
certain, if possible, the value of paper used and sold here an- 
nually, by all who deal in this article. 

" We have no manufactory of railroad iron here, notwith- 
standing the immense amount of material so accessible, and 
soon to be reached by our railroad, and that too of the very 
best quality — vastly superior, both in safety and durability, to 
the high-priced inferior Welsh article, purchased from English 
manufacturers ; and notwithstanding, also, the great demand, 
which the original laying of track, and subsequent perpetual de- 



84 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

mand which the numerous roads concentrating here must pro- 
duce for the article, not to speak of the facility •we have, if once 
engaged in the business, for supplying the demands of the whole 
valley of the Mississippi. And why can not we engage in this 
business, so immensely profitable? Want of capital! This 
is again the plea, and, doubtless, in this instance, at least, 
there is ' more truth than poetry' in the pleading. England 
has grown immensely wealthy by her iron works. She can sell 
iron on a credit — that is, what she regards as credit — although 
to us, who purchase, her railroad bars, it is a pretty hard 
cash kind of an operation. What is the process ? Missouri, 
that has iron enough to supply the world, issues her bonds for 
the purpose of building a railroad ; these bonds having twenty 
years to run, bearing six per cent, interest, are taken to Eng- 
land, and if money is worth three per cent., then, with her 
bonds some ten or fifteen per cent, below their par value, she 
can buy iron, at its highest value, to build her railroads with. 
Principal and interest of these bonds, together with exchange, 
must be paid abroad, besides freight on the iron here, where it 
is most abundant. 

" But what else can be done ? We are not prepared to take 
these bonds ; labor is high, greatly higher here than where they 
make these bars in Wales ; besides, immense capital is necessa- 
ry to start and keep up such works. All this is true and much 
more, and yet it is our interest — the interest of our city, of 
our State, of this great Western Valley — to get up and sustain 
this very necessary work upon our own soil — to retain in our 
own country the wealth thereby to be accumulated. And we 
have the men of capital, of business qualities, who could and 
doubtless would successfully accomplish this matter, with the 
aid of our railroad companies, and if sustained and encouraged 
by the State. In the last Legislature some suggestions were 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 85 

made on this subject, which might have eventuated in great 
practical good if they had been carried into operation. As 
an individual member of this great community, I hope that the 
members to be elected next August to the Legislature will at- 
tend to something else besides mere party politics. 

"I trust they will look more to the interest and prosperity 
of the State, and to the developments of its great and impor- 
tant policy, than to mere party aggrandizement. 

" I do not decry politics — I only wish it may not absorb 
every thing. Now, if our next Legislature and our railroad 
companies could harmoniously adopt a plan, the tendency of 
which would be to build up manufactories of railroad iron in 
our city and State, who can estimate the benefits which would 
result therefrom ? 

" Suppose, as has been before suggested by those more able 
than the present writer, the companies would all agree to take 
their rails at a price which would justify the undertaking, and 
do this for a series of years — say the price were even higher 
than they could probably be obtained for elsewhere — and then 
suppose the Legislature, in addition, were to pay a bonus for 
every ton of railroad iron manufactured in the State for a se- 
ries of years, and were, besides, to exempt the property and 
machinery employed in the manufacture from all taxation for a 
limited period; with this assurance the object might be, I think, 
easily accomplished. 

11 But again, our bonds are used in many States as a basis for 
banking purposes. We know they are safe ; so do those who 
use them. We pay interest to the holders of these bonds semi- 
annually, and then we pay interest besides, and very gladly, on 
the notes issued thereon, for the use of the money, (if we can 
get it,) based upon our bonds deposited in other States. Now, 
suppose we had a free banking law, well restricted and guarded, 



86 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

based upon our own bonds and those of other States as good 
as ours ; then those who made railroad iron here could take 
bonds for it of States, because they would be receivable for 
banking purposes in the State, and, therefore, easily sold— 
bonds which would go into English pockets for iron, which paid 
great profits to English manufacturers, and we would get the 
profits instead of them — while the bonds, being sufficient secu- 
rity for the issue of money, would be retained in our own 
State and furnish us sufficient facilities for carrying on our 
operations. Thus there would be much good accomplished, and 
a new era would dawn on Missouri. 

" A combination then of capitalists, with eminently practical 
business men, conversant with all the details of manufactures, 
would soon put into operation, in our midst, such establish- 
ments as would develop our resources, open up our mines, em- 
ploy our labor, consume our products, increase our wealth, our 
population, our commerce, and make our city as famous for 
her manufacturing establishments as for her steamboats and 
large business houses, and tend most inevitably to render us 
independent of foreign manufacturers. 

" The tendency also of any one is to aid other establishments 
— indeed they are like links in a chain — one naturally suc- 
ceeds another. 

" Our present establishments — most of them commencing very 
small, but guided by skill, by intelligence and industry, crown- 
ed with that strict probity which inspires confidence — have 
reached, at least some of them, such a height as to have un- 
disputed possession of large fields of demand ; while all are 
doing very well, giving assurance unto all men that St. Louis 
is a suitable field in which to operate. 

" Now, if all these have grown up, with the very limited facili- 
ties they have had, what might we not expect to be the result if 



SKETCn BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 87 

our facilities were increased, as they would be, by either or all 
of the general plans before suggested, viz: A free banking 
law — a limited -partnership law — -or even a repeal of the pre- 
sent interest law, which keeps capital out of the city, and is, 
in fact, but an incentive to the operations of the usurer." 

" I will conclude by an exhibit which we find in one of the 
documents published by Congress — a report from one of the 
departments — and which goes to show in part our exports of 
provisions. The statement referred to is as follows : 

" Statement of Domestic Produce and Manufactures shipped from the port of St. 
Louis, destined to New Orleans, Natchez, Vicksburgh, Memphis, Nashville, 
Mills' Point, Helena, and other places on the interior waters of the United 
Slates, in the year ending June 30th, 1851, viz : 

Flour 648,520 bbls. 

Flour 2,156 sacks. 

Wheat 112,600 * 

Oats 415,624 « 

Barley 17,487 « 

Pork 108 bids. 

Pork 5,012 tcs. 

Pork 122,948 bbls. 

Lanl 14,290 tcs. 

Lard 47,450 bbls. 

Lard 19,730 « 

Lard 421 tons. 

Beef 5,111 tcs. 

Beef 4,538 bbls. 

Bacon 24,432 casks. 

Bacon 6,896 tcs. 

Hemp 57,160 bales. 

Lead 472,438 pigs. 

Lead 78,600 bars, lbs. 

Tobacco 9,210 hhds. 

Tobacco 5,011 boxes. 

Refined Sugars 21,892 bbls. 

Sugars 21,905 hhds. 

Sugars 11,548 bbls. 



88 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

Molasses 40,510 bbls. 

Whisky 29,916 « 

Hides 38,490 

Nails 38,776 kegs. 

Glass 6,418 boxes. 

Salt 76,753 bbls. 

Cotton Yarn 6,180 bags. 

Wrought Iron Manufactures 15,345 tons. 

Castings 30,840 " 

"This statement, it "will be perceived, is for the year 1851 ; in 
the three years that have elapsed since then, closing on the 30th 
day of this month, the increase in the export of these articles, I 
may say in all of them, has been very great, but at present I 
will only refer to one item, viz : 'Refined Sugar.' 

In this article the increase has been immense ; for the year 
ending the 30th of June, 1854, I doubt not, it will amount 
fully to 100,000 barrels ! Immense as this increase from 
21,892 in 1850-51, to 100,000 in 1853-54 may appear, it will 
be justified from the amount shown to me for the last six months, 
which is 60,400 barrels — the entire sales of that establishment 
in sugar, molasses and syrups have been over $800, 000 in 
the last three months. Besides, in the list furnished above, 
there is no account of lead pipe, sheet lead, or shot, all of 
which being large items in our city's present manufactures, but 
not in existence or only partially prosecuted at the time that 
report was made, I would like to present some items showing 
their extent. 

Although not engaged myself in any manufacturing estab- 
lishment, or in any way connected therewith, yet I have long 
felt a great interest in their extension and prosperity ; and I 
am induced from many circumstances to believe, neither our 
own citizens, nor people abroad, have any adequate idea of 
the extent, the magnitude, or variety of such establishments 
operating in our city, nor yet of the extent of country to which 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 89 

they send their articles. I had not designed in these numbers 
to enter into minute details, nor yet to particularize establish- 
ments ; but still, as a means of arriving at some just estimate 
of results, it is necessary to instance some particulars. 

We turn then to our iron manufactures, and what do vre 
find to give us some idea of the extent of this branch of busi- 
ness? Perhaps the quantity of iron melted per day in St. 
Louis foundries and machine shops would give us some idea 
of their business. Well, I have made some investigations on 
this point, and find that there is melted daily in St. Louis over 
one hundred tons of metal ! There are six working days per 
week, or say fifty working weeks in the year ; this will give us 
thirty thousand tons of iron melted at our foundries per annum, 
and this almost in the infancy of the business. 

There are now in operation two or more establishments, either 
of which melt up daily more iron than was melted in the same 
time by all the establishments in St. Louis combined, seven 
years ago. This itself presents wonderful progress. Tako 
another fact. I learned to-day at one of our machine shops, 
that in the last six months they had filled orders for work from 
Mississippi, Alabama, Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, Kentucky, 
Ohio, Virginia, Tennessee, Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, Minne- 
sota, New Mexico, Utah, Oregon, California, Washington Ter- 
ritory, besides Missouri. This, of itself, shows the extent of 
demand, and what is said by this one may be said by most, per- 
haps all, of our establishments. Now, let me ask, if in the few 
years in which these establishments have been in operation, all 
of them, perhaps, commencing very small, with but little capital, 
scarcely any banking facilities, against the heavy competition 
of long established rich works on the Ohio, they have grown to 
this extent and importance, what may we not expect, even in 
the next ten years ? especially, as all classes of politicians 



90 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

now in Missouri, it is generally understood, will favor some plan 
for increasing mechanical facilities. 

Take another illustration ; some sixteen months ago one 
establishment commenced the making of lead pipe and sheet 
lead here. They, like all similar untried experiments, had to 
feel their way along. The machinery was costly — workmen, 
at first, difficult to be obtained — the field of sale preoccupied by 
those longer engaged, more experienced, possessed of ample 
capital. 

But these young men possessed the energy, the probity, felt 
the field was vast, and were content with small profits on large 
sales. They pushed the battle to the gate, and now what is the 
result ? They supply with these articles the entire Valley of the 
Mississippi. South, they include the trade of New Orleans ; 
east, all the region to Pittsburg ; north, the whole region of the 
upper lakes. Within the last twelve months they have manu- 
factured of lead pipe alone over 2,000,000 of pounds. This has 
been shipped in immense casks and on large reels, to supply 
the demands of the great west and south ; while of sheet lead 
they have made 1,250,000 pounds in the same period, besides 
bar lead. 

Now, these articles were not included in our exports of 1851, 
before presented, for the works were not in existence then, and 
these figures are now given to show that St. Louis is a suitable 
place for manufactures, and also what may be done by industry 
and intelligence. 

In the said Government returns, no mention is made of shot, 
although that article was then manufactured here — but, like 
everything else, has grown considerably in that period. 

There is but one " shot tower" here, but it is fully qualified 
to supply the vast extent of country dependent on us, or which 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 91 

our skill or ability may bring within the reach of our operations. 
The region supplied from here with shot embraces nearly all 
the valley of the Mississippi. 

I deem the operations of this concern to be important, 
and was anxious to furnish in this place some indication of its 
extent, which I am enabled to do by the kind courtesy of Cap- 
tain Simonds, one of the enterprising proprietors. 

1 take an aggregate statement furnished me by him of its 
business during the five months, commencing January 1st, and 
ending June 1st, 1854, as made up from their books, viz : 

Total amount of shot of all sizes manufactured and sold 

during said five months, 79,775 bags or 1,994,375 lbs. 

Bar lead for same period, 1,714 kegs, or 428,400 lbs. 

Total shot and lead in five months, 2,422,835 lbs. 

During that period of five months the works were run but 
104 days ; thus the amount of pig lead consumed each day 
averages 23,240 pounds. 

These figures show the extensive scale on which such manu- 
factures as our people engage in are prosecuted ; and as they 
have all heretofore succeeded, may we not presume that other 
branches and other works of same branches would be equally 
successful ? 

There is one branch of business now prosecuted here, of the 
magnitude of which I had no idea. It seems small in its indi- 
viduality, but, although most know it exists, few I apprehend 
have a conception of its extent — I mean the manufacture of 
soda water. 

Nor do I now refer to that excellent and pleasant beverage, 
as it is drawn sparkling from the multitudinous fountains 
erected for its sale at the drug stores and other shops in every 
part of the city — although the supply of these fountains is itself 



92 SKETCH EOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

a large business — I mean only to notice the article termed 
* bottled soda.' Few of our citizens, I apprehend, have any 
adequate idea of the extent to which this business is carried 
on here. 

The machinery employed in its production is beautiful and 
expensive, but perfect in its adaptation, and the manufacture in 
all its parts is prosecuted with a precision and regularity equal 
to any of the establishments of the country. That your read- 
ers may have some idea of the extent of this business, I will 
present some data, gathered from one of these factories, of 
which there are four in active operation here — although the one 
I refer to is doubtless the most extensive, and at present most 
complete. 

The capital invested in this concern is $25,000. The hands 
employed and now in it, seventy-five. They have in operation 
a steam engine of: their own, by which most of the business is 
done; and as they cannot supply the demand, they are now 
enlarging their machinery so as to increase their product. 

This concern uses in material, say sugar, syrups, corks, twine, 
&c, $1,200 per week, and pay in wages per week $900. They 
manufacture and sell on an average over 1,600 dozen, or say 
19,200 bottles of soda water per day. 

They use in their increasing trade, and lose by breakage, &c, 
about 1000 gross of bottles per annum, costing $5 per gross 
of twelve dozen, beside the amount on hand at the commence- 
ment of the year. 

When ready, it is put up in boxes with the manufacturer's 
name painted on each, and shipped on our daily packets, and 
in wagons', to all the principal towns and cities on our upper 
rivers and the surrounding country, and the boxes and empty 
bottles returned again by the same conveyances, with the preci- 
sion and certainty that attends commercial operations. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 93 

But this is the account of only one of the four establishments 
operating in this business here. How much the others do I 
know not, but if they only duplicate the above, the result is 
great, and this business has commenced within the last five or 
six years. 

In this connection,- 1 may mention that, beside* the establish- 
ments before mentioned, there are in successful operation here, 
four Iron Safe manufactories ; two Iron Door and Shutter 
works ; three Iron Railing Works ; two Iron Suction and Force 
Pump Works ; one extensive and several small Brush factories ; 
two Willow Ware factories ; one extensive Starch factory, 
employing a capital of some $30,000, and rapidly superseding 
the article heretofore largely imported from Ohio and the east- 
ern cities. I am assured that no better starch is made, both the 
common and pearl, than that now furnished by a St. Louis 
manufacturer. And while he produces so good an article, his 
sales fully justify him in prosecuting the business energetically 
and constantly, enlarging the capacity for production so as to 
meet the increasing demand. His sales for the last year largely 
exceed $30,000, and now fairly under way, this will increase 
until the entire trade in this article will be supplied from our 
own factories. From all the facts adduced, it is manifest we 
are very rapidly becoming a manufacturing city ; nor have I 
enumerated all the separate branches of productive industry 
successfully prosecuted here ; for we have a manufactory of 
saws, where are made the very best qualities of hand, cross- 
cut, mill and circular saws. — also one for making augers, chis- 
els, brace bitts, and various articles of cutlery ; two or more 
bench plane and wood screw factories ; two bellows factories, 
equal to any imported. Three establishments where are exten- 
sively made platform and counter scales ; two establishments 
for fancy iron working, and recently one of our enterprising 



94 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

citizens, who was a pioneer in one of our most important branches 
of manufacture, has engaged in another, which will soon be 
operating on the west side of the Mississippi — the cotton loom. 
Soon we shall have in our market sheetings, shirtings and osna- 
burgs of St. Louis manufacture, and who can tell how long it 
may be until muslins, lawns, calicoes, &c, may be added to 
our list of home produced articles ? To all these, I may add 
the manufacture of locks, both those for banks and iron safes, 
as also the common door locks, now making here on a pretty 
extensive scale. Indeed, until one turns attention to the sub- 
ject, and by inquiry and extensive observation in every part of 
the city, he can have no adequate idea of the various works in 
operation here. Very many of them are small — are indeed, as 
it were, beginnings — but they are in their measure and in their 
results important. All our works were small, but by industry 
and care have grown, some to great magnitude, and already 
exert a good influence on our onward march to greatness." 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 95 



CHAPTER VII. 

THE ST. LOUIS AGRICULTURAL AND MECHANICAL ASSOCIATION 

Was chartered by an act of the General Assembly of Missouri, 
approved December 7th, 1855. 

At a meeting of the corporators on the 4th day of February 
1856, books were opened for the subscription to the capital 
stock. 

The requisite amount of stock subscribed, the stockholders 
were called together for the election of the first board of Di- 
rectors, on the 4th day of May, 1856. 

The following gentlemen were elected : Andrew Harper, 
Thos. T. January, Henry C. Hart, John Withnell, Thornton 
Grimsley, Frederick Dings, James M. Hughes, Henry S. Turner, 
Charles L. Hunt, John M. Chambers, Henry T. Blow, Norman 
J. Coleman and J. R. Barret. 

Upon the organization of the board on the 5th day of May, 
1856, J. R. Barret was elected President ; T. Grimsley, A. 
Harper, H. C. Hart, Vice Presidents ; H. S. Turner, Treasurer ; 
G. 0. Kalb, General Agent and Recording Secretary, and 0. 
W. Collet as Corresponding Secretary. 

It was not until the 4th day of June that the board of Direc- 
tors were able to agree upon the locality of the Fair Grounds. 
And although there were many pieces of ground under consider- 
ation, and naturally much diversity of sentiment in a board 
composed of as many as thirteen Directors, nearly all of whom 



96 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

were entirely inexperienced, still time has proved that the choice 
made was in every respect the very best. 

They selected a piece of ground about three and a half miles 
north east of the Court House, situated upon Grand avenue, 
containing 56 arpens ; bounded north by Kossuth street, east by 
Grand avenue, South by Natural Bridge plank road and west 
by Bryan avenue ; the land rich, nearly square in shape, em- 
bracing a beautiful grove of native oaks, and about one mile 
and a quarter from the Reservoir of the city. 

The purchase was made on or about the 10th day of June, 
1856, from Col. John O'Fallon, for the sum of $50,000, on 
terms to suit the Association. Much is due to Col. O'Fallon 
for the liberality in his proposition to the Association. He has 
ever been^intimately connected with the great interests of St. 
Louis, and his name should, and will, ever be mentioned in her 
history. 

On or about the 25th day of July the plans of the amphithe- 
atre and other buildings were matured, and not until then did 
active operations commence. The first fair was held on the 13th, 
14th, 15th, 16th, 17th and 18th days of October. The sum of 
$10,000 was offered in premiums. 

The number of entries for competition, the splendid display 
both for competition and exhibition, the thousands of attendants 
from home and abroad, pronounced this the first fair of the 
St. Louis Agricultural and Mechanical Association a success. 

The underbrush had been cleared away. Thus trimmed, a 
close fence built around the whole of the ground, nine feet high, 
300 stalls ornamented tastefully had been erected, a pond five 
feet deep had been filled, and upon it stood a magnificent am- 
phitheatre 300 feet in diameter, capable of seating 12,000 per- 
sons and of sheltering 36,000 ; with fourteen rows of seats 
ranging around the whole, one above the other, and reaching 



SKETCH EOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 97 

up to a promenade fifteen feet wide, overlooking the arena with- 
in and the beautiful grounds without, and with a promenade 
below of same width, encircling eighty- one booths, all under 
the same cover ; the whole embracing in the centre a Pagoda 
forty- five feet high, of three stories, built around a pole one 
hundred and fifty feet in height. Nearest the amphitheatre a 
circular floral hall, eighty feet in diameter ; next a mechanical 
hall, one hundred and twenty feet long by eighty^in width ; and, 
at a suitable distance, was a machine shop one hundred feet by 
forty, with shafting the full length for testing all kinds of ma- 
chinery with steam power. The whole grounds were connected 
with the great Reservoir of the city by a nine inch pipe, and the 
water conducted to every part, furnishing seven fountains, one 
of which was drained into a fish pond — the others into a basin 
near the stalls for the accommodation of stock. 

Contiguous to the amphitheatre, near the main"entrance or 
grand gate, a beautiful Gothic cottage had been erected, con- 
taining four saloons for the reception and accommodation of 
the ladies. 

The whole work had been accomplished in so short a time as 
to surprise the citizens of St. Louis no less than visitors from 
abroad. 

The next annual fair took place in September, 1857, and last- 
ed six days, from September 28th to October 3d. $16,000 
were offered in premiums. 

The experiment of the first year made manifest the necessity 
of other accommodations. The stalls were increased to the 
number of 375 ; the mechanical hall was made one fourth larg- 
er ; the machine shop was made double the size. A. fine art 
hall eighty- five feet long and forty-three feet wide was built, 
and a Gallinarium, entirely of wire, three stories high, and 
containing ninety apartments, was erected. 
5 



98 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

At the second fair, notwithstanding the increase in the size 
and number of buildings, there was not room enough. The 
amphitheatre would not hold more than one -fourth of the visit- 
ors, the stalls were full of stock, and the fine art and floral 
hall, and all other buildings, entirely inadequate. 

Board of Directors for 1858. — J. R. Barret, A. Harper, 
T. Grimsley, Henry C. Hart, Henry T. Blow, T. T. January, 
Charles L. Hunt, John Withnell, Charles Todd, Thomas B. 
Hudson, Ben. O'Fallon, John Sappington, Henry S. Turner. 

Officers. — J. R. Barret, President ; A. Harper, T. Grimsley, 
Henry C. Hart, Vice Presidents ; Henry S. Turner, Treasurer ; 
G. 0. Kalb, Recording Secretary and General Agent ; N. J. 
Coleman, Corresponding Secretary. 

The third annual fair of this association will commence on 
the 6th of September, continuing six days ; and it promises to 
be superior to any of the previous displays. 

FIRE DEPARTMENT. 

St. Louis is well prepared with all the apparatus to preserve 
from destruction by fire all property within her limits. There 
are at present " two Richmonds in the field," the Independent 
Department and the Pay Department, both striving for the 
flame end. On account of the 

INDEPENDENT FIRE DEPARTMENT 

Having been organized for a number of years, we will give a 
sketch of it first, and it demands considerable attention. It is 
a useful and important organization, for at all hours, in all 
kinds of weather, soon as the tocsin sounds, they arc to be 
seen hastening to the place of combat, ready to " conquer, 
and thus save." 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 99 

We havo cause to feel considerable pride in the perseverance, 
diligence, industry, gentlemanly and proper deportment of those 
who constitute this wing of the fire deparment ; their zeal is 
unquenchable, and seldom does a fire get so ahead as to become 
extensively destructive. Extraneous causes sometimes prevent 
their usefulness, and they are unable to perform with the alac- 
rity they desire, the services expected of them ; but, in the 
main, they are as prompt, as efficient, as useful, do as much 
good, and prevent as much evil and loss, as any similar body of 
men in any part of the country. 

A Fire Department was early organized in this city — indeed, 
at a time when there were comparatively few houses. We find 
by the old " City Directory of 1821" there were two fire com- 
panies in St. Louis ; when those ceased to exist we are unable 
to learn, but the present department had its organization in 
1832, in the formation of the Central Fire Company. 

The companies now belonging to the Independent Fire De- 
partment are : 

Central Fire Company, No. 1 ; St. Louis Fire Company, No. 
4 ; Missouri Fire Company, No. 5 ; Liberty Fire Company, No. 
6 ; Phoenix Fire Company, No. 7 ; Laclede Fire Company, No. 
10 ; Good Will Fire Company, No 11 ; Lafayette Hook and 
Ladder Company, No. 1. 

These companies own 12 hand fire engines, most of them 
first class suction and forcing engines, 10 four-wheeled hose 
carriages, 6 two-wheeled hose tenders, bringing into active 
service upwards of 3,000 feet of hose. The engines were built 
as follows : 4 in Philadelphia, 2 in New York, 2 in Boston, 3 
in Baltimore, and 1 in St. Louis. 

The companies have a total of, say 600 active members, who 
are exempt by law from serving on juries. They are composed 
of active, intelligent, sober citizens ; they have taken a pride 



100 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

in maintaining for the department a reputable position ; have 
precluded from membership those unworthy, who would be cal- 
culated to produce disturbance, and thus impair the confidence 
of the community in the efficiency, usefulness and respectability 
of the associations. 

This department receives nothing from the city, and is main- 
tained by its own exertions, and by voluntary contributions of 
our citizens. 

The Independent Fire Department is governed by a delegated 
body, composed of three delegates, elected by each company, 
who elect their own President and Secretary, and make all rules 
for the general government of the companies. The "Fire- 
men's Association," thus constituted, besides making necessary 
regulations, constitute also a Court for the trial of any mis- 
demeanor, either by one or more companies, or individual mem- 
bers thereof ; they inflict such punishment as the magnitude of 
the offence may warrant — either expulsion, suspension or fine. 

This department is controlled at all fires, &c, by a chief 
engineer and three assistants, who are elected by the Firemen's 
Association. The present officers of the department are J. E. 
D. Couzens, Chief Engineer ; A. C. Hull, A. Sprague and J. 
Gregory, Assistant Engineers. 

PAID DEPARTMENT. 

A committee having been appointed by the City Council, in 
1844, to visit Cincinnati and inspect the Steam Fire Engines, 
gave, upon their rei,urn, such glowing accounts of the efficiency 
of the "great squirts," and the beauties of the paid fire 
department, that many were for adopting the system in St. 
Louis. This new movement found many advocates, who used 
every endeavor to urge upon the City Council the passage of an 
ordinance establishing the paying system. About this time a 



SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 101 

number of half grown boys, who are always to be found hang- 
ing about the engine houses, having gotten up a couple of 
"musses," (we use this term because it expresses the meaning 
of the writer better than any other, for these bickerings can not 
be called riots,) the demands became loud and deep. Several 
of the papers began to advocate the reform, and kept the ball 
in motion, till finally an ordinance was passed, which took effect 
in June, 1857. 

Several of the companies who had previously been ardent 
workers in the good cause sold their apparatus to the city and 
disbanded ; among these latter we may mention the Washing- 
ton, Franklin, and Mound. 

The members of the Franklin Fire Company, after effecting 
a sale of their apparatus, &c, formed themselves into an asso- 
ciation, and used the money obtained for the purchase of an 
extensive library, and have fitted up rooms, where the members 
meet and spend their leisure hours in endeavoring to improve 
their minds. This was a judicious movement upon the part of 
the members of this company, and they deserve credit for it. 

Connected with this department is a Fire Alarm Telegraph, 
which has been recently finished. Lines from all parts of the 
city are attached to the bells situated in the various houses, &c, 
and a station is had in every block, so that an alarm can be 
sounded instantaneously in all parts of the city. This is a great 
advantage, and will prevent, in a great measure, the false 
alarms which have heretofore been so common. 

This department have now in their possession one of Shauk's 
Steam Fire Engines and three of Latta's Patent. They are of 
immense advantage in the extinguishing of fires, and are grow- 
ngmore and more into the affections of the people. A proposi- 
tion has been made by the underwriters to the City Council 
offering to purchase two of Latta's engines if the city will pur- 



102 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

chase the third. This proposition -will doubtless be acceded to, 
and increase the force to seven steam engines. 

This arrangement will give St. Louis the best fire depart- 
ment in the United States. With seven steam engines, fifteen 
hand engines, besides hook and ladder companies, a fire will 
stand a poor prospect of doing much damage. 

The entire management of the working affairs of this depart- 
ment is controlled by a chief engineer and his assistants. 
They are H. C. Sexton, Chief Engineer ; John Wm. Bame, 
Richard Beggs, Assistants. 

Steam Engines — Old Union No. 2, Washington ave., bet. 
Seventh and Eighth, nine men and six horses ; Geo. Kyler, 
Eleventh St., bet. Wash, ave.and Carr St., nine men and five 
horses ; Davis Moore, Third St., bet. Elm and Myrtle, nine men 
and five horses ; John M. Wimer, cor. Mound and Broadway, 
nine men and five horses. 

Hand Engines — South St. Louis, twenty-six men and 
three horses ; Jefferson, twenty- six men and three horses ; 
North St. Louis, twenty-six men and three horses. 

Total number of companies 7 ; of men employed 114 ; of 
horses 27. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 103 



CHAPTER VIII. 

ST. LOUIS DAILY REPUBLICAN. 
George Knapp & Co., Proprietors. 

On the morning of the 12th of July, 1808, there appeared 
in the village of St. Louis, in the Territory of Louisiana, a pa- 
per destined, as the sequel proves, to exert a greater influence 
upon the politics of the country than any similar publication 
west of the Alleghanies. It made its appearance bearing the 
title of "Louisiana Gazette — published by Joseph Charless, 
printer to the Territory and of the laws of the United States." 
Had we space we would be glad to follow the course of this 
sheet from the time it first appeared, making its weekly visits 
to its friends to the present day, when it has reached collossal 
proportions, and makes its appearance a welcome visitor in all 
parts of the city and land, bearing the news of all climes and 
countries. 

In March, 1820, Mr. Cummings, now a resident of Pitts- 
burgh, bought out the paper. He remained in possession for 
two years ; at the end of this period the paper became the pro- 
perty of Mr. Edward Charless, a son of the former proprietor. 
It then became, as it is to this day, the Missouri Republican, 
its size being twenty- six by twenty inches. 

On the 25th of March, 1828, Mr. Nathaniel Paschall (one 
of the present proprietors and editor in chief) became a co- 
proprietor, its size being at that time thirty-one by twenty- two 
inches. 



104 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

Upon the 9th day of April, 1833, the paper made its first 
semi- weekly appearance — the weekly was still continued for the 
benefit of the country subscribers. The semi- weekly flourished 
and grew apace, and upon the 30th of April, 1835, it was dis- 
continued and a tri-weekly issued instead. Success also at- 
tended this step, and in the issue of August 18th, 1836, we find 
the following notice : 

" Daily — As soon as the requisite arrangements can be made, 
the Republican will be issued daily." A month had passed 
away before the promise was carried into effect. 

On the 3d of July, 1837, Messrs. Charless & Paschall retired 
from the Republican, making a graceful bow to the public who 
had so long sustained them, and introducing as their successors 
Messrs. Chambers, Harris & Knapp. 

CoL Chambers is still remembered too well and affectionately 
to need that his praise should be spoken here. No man has been 
more intimately connected with the history of the city, and none 
whose loss was felt more severely. 

George Knapp had become connected with the Republican in 
1827, when he commenced his career as an apprentice in the 
office. Since that time he has continued, without intermission, 
his connection with the paper. His rise is chronicled by its 
course since the day he entered the office, and the position in 
the management of the affairs of the paper is too well known to 
need particular comment. 

In 1839 Mr. Harris retired from the concern and the busi- 
ness was conducted by Messrs. Chambers & Knapp. Mr. Jo- 
seph W. Dougherty became one of the firm about this time, and 
so continued for about eighteen months. Soon after Mr. D. 
had retired, Mr. Paschall, who had been connected in the 
meantime with the " New Era," returned to this office as as- 
sistant editor. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 105 

May 17th, 1849, the great fire occurred and completely de- 
stroyed the Republican office ; also the Organ, New'Era and Re- 
veille. After the fire the paper was printed upon a smaller sheet 
until new material was received, when it again made its ap- 
pearance in its old size. In January, 1854, the sheet was again 
enlarged to its present proportions — thirty- three by fifty- six 
inches. In May of 1854 Mr. Chambers was laid upon the bed 
of sickness, from which he never rose again to enjoy the bless- 
ings of this life. On the 22d of the month he departed to that 
" undiscovered country" amid the tears of the whole commu- 
nity. 

To Mr. Chambers succeeded in his interest his widow, who 
with George Knapp, the surviving partner, continued the paper 
under the style of George Knapp & Co. On the 19th of May 
following, she sold her interest to Mr. George Knapp, who as- 
sumed all the liabilities of the office under the title of " George 
Knapp." The next and last change was effected as is explained 
in the following announcement, which appeared Tuesday, Au- 
gust 7th, 1855 : 

Missouri Republican. — I have admitted Mr. Nathaniel Pas- 
chall and my brother, Mr. John Knapp, as partners in the pub- 
lication of the Missouri Republican, and hereafter the business 
will be conducted under the style of George Knapp & Co. 
[Signed] George Knapp. 

Since which time its course has been onward, the best expres- 
sion of which can be given by the republication of a short arti- 
cle in this paper of March 16th, last : 

" The year 1856 was in every way the most prosperous year 
this paper has ever known. Our subscriptions never increased so 
rapidly, our advertisements never crowded in so upon us, and 
the footings up of the year show a larger nett gain in subscri- 
bers and profits than any previous year. * * * * 
t 5* 



10G SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

" Our readers will bear us witness that we very seldom trou- 
ble them with our business affairs, and never unless provoked 
to it by some such meddlesome and unfriendly writer as the one 
just quoted. We are content to let the Republican go forth to 
its readers just as it is, bearing such evidence of prosperity as a 
judicious reader may infer from an inspection of its pages. We 
are willing that others shall judge of the amount of labor be- 
stowed upon it, and the expense attending its publication, as 
well as its income. It is sufficient for us to know that, while 
incurring a very heavy expense in the issue of the paper, it has 
compensated us in past years, and we expect it to do so for ma- 
ny years to come. We have alluded in brief terms to the posi- 
tion in which the close of the year found the Republican. We 
have since advanced two months and a half in our course, and 
we have met with a still larger share of the confidence of the 
public. Since the first of January we have increased our daily 
circulation over seven hundred, and the tri- weekly and weekly 
issues have kept pace with this increase. Our advertising pa- 
tronage — the life-blood of a newspaper — has also extended it- 
self until we find great difficulty in controlling it. We risk no- 
thing in saying that this branch of our patronage has doubled 
itself since the close of 1854, and this is strengthened by a 
statement which our book-keeper has furnished us of the new 
advertisements which were published during the fourteen days 
ending the middle of the past week. The total number of new 
advertisements within that period was 2,071, and the average 
sum paid for them was $310 per day, or $4,345 for the four- 
teen days. In this calculation we have not taken into account 
the numerous advertisements of those who have yearly accounts 
with us. They are such as are inserted for a limited period, 
and charged accordingly." 

The editorial columns of the Republican are under the charge 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 107 

of Mr. Paschall, who is assisted by a large number of talented 
writers, who continue to furnish their readers with every thing 
that is worthy of being noted. The subscription of the Repub- 
lican is, Daily, $10; Tri- Weekly, $5 ; Weekly, $2. 

THE DAILY MISSOURI DEMOCRAT. 
McKee & Fishbeck, Proprietors. 

This paper was established on the 9th of July, 1852, as a 
conservative Democratic journal, by Messrs. Hill & McKee. 
These gentlemen conducted the Democrat in a spirited manner 
and soon won a host of friends. In March, 1853, they pur- 
chased the St. Louis Union, then the property of Capt. Rich- 
ard I. Phillips. This purchase removed the only opposition 
Democratic paper in the city, and gave the Democrat a fair field, 
which it was not slow to take advantage of. In 1854 Mr. Hill 
retired from the concern, and his interest afterwards passed into 
the hands of Mr. George W. Fishbeck, the present associate of 
Mr. Wm. McKee. 

Ever since its first publication the Democrat has been rapidly 
extending its circulation and increasing its advertising patron- 
age, and at this day there is not a newspaper in the State of 
Missouri paying a better per cent, upon the money invested. 

It has for the past three years been under the editorial man- 
agement of B. Gratz Brown, Esq., a gentleman of fine talents, 
and a brilliant and forcible speaker and writer. His course upon 
the free labor and Kansas questions has made his name, and 
that of the Democrat, familiar throughout the country. 

In every other department, as well as the editorial, the Dem- 
ocrat is ably conducted. Its commercial reports, which are 
prepared by Mr. Fishbeck, are not excelled by those of any 
other journal in St. Louis for accuracy or fullness. Mr. Fish- 



108 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

beck is admirably adapted by nature for this post, and his long 
service has rendered him perfectly aufait in every thing that ap- 
pertains to this department. The marine news is prepared by Mr. 
Ryland, a gentleman of marked ability, while the local column, 
under the charge of Mr. Davis, is a complete daily history of 
the events of the city, written in a pleasant style. 

Connected with this paper is one of the best arranged and 
most extensive Job Offices in the west, which enjoys a large share 
of public patronage. 

The subscription to the Daily Democrat is $8 per annum, 
Tri- weekly $5, Weekly $1. The proprietors have offered three 
farms as prizes to those persons sending them the largest list 
of subscribers. This, we believe, was also done last year. 

THE ST. LOUIS LEADER. 
Charles L. Hunt, Proprietor. 

This is a daily, tri-weekly and weekly Democratic journal, 
published at No. 48 Third street, corner of Pine street, St. 
Louis. 

The present paper is not the first which has borne the name 
in this city. Early in 1855, a number of influential Catholic 
citizens determined on the establishment of a weekly paper, and 
made proposals to Dr. J. V. Huntington, then the editor of the 
Baltimore Metropolitan Magazine, who was visiting St. Louis by 
invitation of the Catholic Institute, as a lecturer. Arrangements 
being satisfactorily effected, subscriptions were raised, and these, 
as collected, were, in pursuance of a resolution adopted by a 
meeting of the subscribers, paid over to Dr. Huntington, who 
was recognized as both proprietor and editor of the Weekly 
Leader. The first number was dated March 10th, 1855. 

This paper appeared regularly and without modification in 



SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 109 

plan until the summer of 1856, when the proprietor thought 
fit to take, as a journalist, an active part on the Democratic 
side in the political campaign of that year, and accordingly es- 
tablished, on the 1st of July, the Daily Evening Leader, a jour- 
nal, as stated in its prospectus, independent, though far from 
neutral, in politics, and retaining the Catholic character of the 
weekly from which it had been developed. The weekly was also 
continued in its original form. 

The Evening Leader, during its brief existence, attained a 
large measure of success, and was speedily acknowledged as a 
valuable auxiliary to the forces of the Buchanan party. The 
Evening Pilot was, at that period, the recognized Democratic or- 
gan in this city. Early in the fall Mr. Charles L. Hunt enter- 
ed into negotiation with the proprietors of the Leader and 
Pilot, resulting in the purchase of the latter, and the merging 
of both journals into a new daily morning paper which retain- 
ed the name of the Leader, Messrs. Huntington and Hunt be- 
coming its joint proprietors. 

The first number of the new journal was issued on the 13th 
of October, 1856. It was avowedly disconnected from all re- 
ligious affinities, and regularly succeeded to the organship of the 
National Democratic party. The editorial chairs were filled by 
Dr. Huntington and Wm. Seay, Esq. The Sunday Leader, a 
literary edition of the paper, was placed, in the spring of 1857, 
and still remains, under the editorial charge of Donald Mac- 
Leod, Esq., a well known author and poet. 

In the fall of the same year Mr. Hunt, having purchased the 
interest of his partner, became sole proprietor, and in February, 
1858, placed the Leader under the general charge of Edward 
W. Johnson, Esq., Mr. Seay retaining his post as political edi- 
tor. Mr. Johnson has been before the public for many years 



110 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

as editorially connected with the National Intelligencer, the 
Richmond Whig, the New Orleans Crescent, &c. 

At this period the form of: the quarto was abandoned for that 
of the folio, and in its new shape acquired a large additional 
patronage. There are four editiens of the Leader, the Daily, 
Sunday, Tri -weekly and Weekly. Its circulation is large and 
increasing, and as the Democratic organ of the State has won 
a wide and high reputation. 

ST. LOUIS HERALD . 
James L. Faucett, Editor and Proprietor. 

This paper was originated by Messrs. Russell S. Higgins, the 
well known and popular editor of the St. Louis Organ, and 
Philip G. Ferguson, and made its first appearance on the morn- 
ing of the 20th of December, 1852. It was at that time pub- 
lished at five cents per week — was 16J by 23 inches, and was 
spiritedly conducted. On July 4th, 1854, the paper was en- 
larged to twenty by twenty- seven inches, and the price of sub- 
scription advanced to ten cents per week. The editorial corps 
embraced considerable talent at that time, numbering among its 
regular contributors Mr. Allen, the popular financial editor of 
the St. Louis Republican ; Thomas Gales Forster, the present 
editor of the Boston Banner of Light, a spiritualist ; and others. 
On the 18th of November, 1853, Mr. James L. Faucett became 
connected with the management of the Herald. This was an 
important epoch in the Herald's history. Mr. F. was a young 
man of indomitable industry and perseverance, possessing a 
large acquaintance with the citizens of St. Louis. On the 4th of 
August Mr. F. purchased the interest of Mr. Higgins, and the 
Herald was issued by Ferguson & Faucett. Upon this change 
being made in the proprietorship, the Herald was again enlarged 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. Ill 

and was presented to its readers on a 21 J by 30 inch sheet. The 
fourth volume was published by the same firm and or! the same 
size, but was marked by an increased vigor in the editorial 
management ; being treated to a new dress, it presented a very 
neat appearance. Through the energetic exertions of Mr. Fau- 
cett, the Sunday Herald was commenced, and which is now such 
a favorite with our reading public. The difficulties which sur- 
rounded Mr. Faucett in this undertaking were almost insur- 
mountable ; besides the usual difficulties attendant upon such an 
enterprise, he had to contend against the opposition of Mr. 
Ferguson, who predicted a failure. Mr. Faucettt knew no 
such word as " fail," and he now has the satisfaction of seeing 
his efforts crowned with success. 

The fifth volume of the Herald was commenced on the 24th 
of April, 1855, and was inaugurated by another enlargement. 
The sixth volume made its appearance in a new dress and was 
now the neatest paper printed in the city. The seventh volume 
observed another enlargement, the size being 22 by 32 inches. 
The eighth volume was also enlarged on the 31st of March, 
1857, to 24 by 36 inches. 

On the 3d of July, 1857, Mr. Faucett purchased the interest 
of Mr. Ferguson and took the entire charge of the editorial col- 
umns, assisted by an able corps of assistants. Under the gui- 
dance of Mr. F. the Herald has been an ardent advocate of the 
working class, and has always denounced in unmeasured terms 
the attempts of those in power to abuse their privileges. The 
Sunday Herald is furnished at two dollars per annum ; the 
Daily Herald at ten cents per week, and deserves the success it 
receives. May it prosper and grow fat. 

We are informed that an enlargement would have been made 
by Mr. Faucett last fall, had it not been for the monetary cri- 
sis affecting his advertisers ; but we are assured that it will soon 



112 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

be carried into consummation. The Herald is now printed at 
No. 24 Market street, between Main and Second streets, and 
has a fine Job Office attached, under the charge of Mr. E. H. A. 
Habicht, one of the most skillful job printers in the west. 

ST. LOUIS PRICE CURRENT. 
Anderson & Gonter, Editors and Proprietors. 

The St. Louis Price Currsnt was established by Mr. Josiah 
Anderson, in the fall of 1848, in connection with the " People's 
Daily Organ ;" during which year, and up to 1850, it was is- 
sued semi- weekly in " letter sheet" form. In 1849 a semi- 
weekly newspaper edition was commenced in connection with the 
letter sheet, but in 1852 both editions became weeklies, and 
were thus continued by Mr. Anderson to February 1st, 1856, 
when Charles G. Gonter became one of the proprietors ; since 
which time a Daily Price Current, a letter sheet and a news- 
paper form, weekly, have regularly been issued from that es- 
tablishment ; and, we are glad to state, are well and liberally 
supported by the mercantile community. The array of adver- 
tisements in the columns of the Price Current is a guaranty of 
its appreciation by those desirous of extending their business 
through such a valuable and authentic medium. We are told 
that the Price Current is sent to almost every State in the Union, 
as well as to London, Liverpool and other important foreign 
cities. The letter sheet Price Current has attained a circulation 
of nearly 4,000 copies. 

The Price Current establishment is the only office west of the 
Mississippi river where Gordon's patent "Fire-Fly" Card 
Press is to be found — Mr. Gonter having purchased the right. 
It feeds itself, prints, cuts and counts the cards, from a contin- 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 113 

uoiis roll of card board, at the rate of 8,000 and 10,000 per 
hour. Office, over No. 8, Olive street. 

OTHER PRINTING ESTABLISHMENTS, AND " PRINTERS' UNION." 

Besides the papers already mentioned there are 16 weekly 
papers and 12 magazines and periodicals. There are job offi- 
ces in profusion, furnishing employment for about 850 printers. 
The affairs of the craft are governed by a Union, and regular 
monthly meetings are held for the purpose of legislating upon 
all questions affecting their interests. This association numbers 
among its members many gentlemen of fine ability, who would 
reflect honor upon any position in life which they might be 
called upon to sustain. Mr. H. P. Callou is the present pre- 
siding officer. 



114 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 



CHAPTER IX. 



WESTERN RIVER IMPROVEMENT AND WRECKING COMPANY. 

There is perhaps no enterprise connected with the city of St. 
Louis more important in all its various bearings than the one 
above named. When we consider the magnitude of the trade 
on the Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio, Illinois, Red, Cumberland, 
and Tennessee rivers, with their numerous tributaries, — the 
millions of property which are annually borne upon their bosoms, 
together with the amount which is lost by the constantly occur- 
ring accidents which no care or foresight can prevent, the 
usefulness and importance of this company is so apparent as 
to be clear to the most superficial observer. 

No streams in the world present greater obstacles to the 
raising of boats and the recovery of their cargoes, machin- 
ery, etc., than do the Mississippi and Missouri rivers. Their 
swift-running currents, surcharged with sand, soon form bars 
in and around the hulls of the unfortunate boats, which are 
serious obstructions to the recovery of property. When we 
consider these facts, it is a pleasing thought to know that many 
of these difficulties have been overcome by the efforts of 
Messrs. Eads & Nelson, the originators of the above named 
company. 

The first diving-bell used on the Mississippi, we believe, was 




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SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 115 

constructed and used by Mr. Thomas, formerly proprietor 

of the Sectional Docks, upon the wreck of a steamboat sunk in 
the Mississippi river between the cities of St. Louis and Alton, 
about the year 1838. His efforts were only partially successful, 
the diving-bell boats used being mere flatboats. The diving-bell 
of Mr. Thomas, with two or three other temporary contrivances, 
were all the public had to depend upon until the year 1842, 
when the Sub-Marine No. 1 was built. She was looked 
upon as quite a prodigy in her day. This boat was built by 
Eads & Nelson and Captain Calvin Case, (a gentleman much re- 
spected by the citizens of St. Louis for his energy of character, 
and who lost his life in the unfortunate Gasconade disaster. ) 
She was used only for the purpose of raising the machin- 
ery and cargo of sunken boats. In the year 1845 Messrs. 
Case and Eads retired from the firm, and the business was con- 
ducted by Mr. Nelson alone, until the year 1847, when a com- 
pany was formed composed of Messrs. Wm. S. Nelson, Jas. 
B. Eads and A. McDowell. Mr. McDowell, however, shortly 
after retired, and the business was conducted for the ten years 
ensuing by Messrs. Eads & Nelson. These gentlemen in 1848 
built the Sub- Marine No. 2. She was built at Cairo, and was 
eminently successful in all her operations. 

In the year 1849 the Sub-Marine No. 3 was completed, and 
her first work was clearing our harbor of some of the wrecks of 
the twenty-eight steamboats, consumed in the great fire of May, 
1849. We have in another place spoken of the ravages of that 
terrible day. The work of removing these obstructions from our 
harbor required several months. Since that time the company 
have also removed the wrecks of many other boats burnt, or sunk 
at the levee. 

In 1851 the Sub-Marine No. 4 was built at Paducah, Ken- 
tucky, and inaugurated a new era in the business of wreck- 



116 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

ing upon the western rivers. She was provided with powerful 
steam pumps, patented by Mr. J. Stuart Gwynne, of New 
York. HHais pump (Gwynne's patent centrifugal) is probably 
the most perfect piece of machinery of the kind ever invented. 
The sole right of using this pump on the Mississippi and its trib- 
utaries is possessed by the Western River Improvement and 
Wrecking Company. The achievements of the Sub- Marine 
No. 4 at the time were very satisfactory both to the company 
and the public, as the raising of a steamboat entire on the Mis- 
sissippi had prior to that time been ranked among the impossibil- 
ities — few ever having been entirely raised before she commenced 
operations. Since 1851 upwards of fifty boats have been raised 
and set afloat once more by the aid of this company. Many of 
them too are still running — thus giving to the country a large 
amount of capital which, but for their efforts, would have been 
lost to the commerce of the West. 

In 1855 the five snag boats built by the United States 
Government, at a cost of $185,000, were offered for sale, 
and were purchased by Messrs. Eads & Nelson, and now form 
a part of the fleet used and owned by the present company. 
The copperplate engraving of one of them (the A. H. Sevier) 
is a correct picture of this boat about to raise a snag. (See 
engraving. ) The smallest one, the Terror, built for the Arkan- 
sas river, was converted into the Sub-Marine No. 8. In 1856 
or 1857 the Sub-Marine No. 7 was built. (See accompanying 
engraving, which is an accurate picture of this boat.) She 
cost $80,000, and is beyond a doubt the most complete 
boat of her kind in the world, being capable of raising the 
largest steamers. She is furnished with two of Gwynne's 
centrifugal pumps, capable of discharging two thousand bar- 
rels of water per minute. Her first feat was the raising of the 
steamer Switzerland. This boat was sunk near Natchez, with a 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 117 

cargo of 900 tons on board. The water was 14 feet deep on her 
deck. The sand and mud had settled in a few days to the depth 
of eighteen inches in many places on her, but the Sub -Marine 
No. 7 raised her — cargo, mud and sand — bodily, and set her 
afloat. The Switzerland is now engaged in the Cincinnati and 
New Orleans trade. 

Since this boat has been out she has been kept steadily en- 
gaged, and has performed many feats which a few years ago 
all boatmen and experienced river men would have considered 
impossible. 

The company have just completed, at New Albany, Indiana, 
two very superior boats, called Sub- Marines No. 11 and 12. 

The field of labor of this company is a large one, and must ulti- 
mately command the extension of its capital to the utmost limit 
allowed by the charter, in order that it may keep pace with the 
necessities of the rapidly growing trade of the Mississippi 
valley. 

After the purchaso of the United States snag-boats above 
spoken of, the idea was conceived by the founders of the pres- 
ent company of converting their great facilities for recovering 
wrecked property into the means of preventing the enormous 
losses of life and vessels constantly occurring on the Missis- 
tippi and its tributaries, by removing the channel obstructions 
which cause them. To this end a proposition was made to the 
General Government by Messrs. Eads & Nelson, in 1856, to 
clear out the snags, stumps, sunken logs, wrecks and rocks which 
infest the navigation, for a fixed sum per annum, for a term of 
five years. It is needless to say that, through the opposition of 
the late President (Gen Pierce,) to all internal improvements, 
this most praiseworthy object failed of success. 

With a view of achieving this end — the improvement of our 
noble rivers — through the means above mentioned, and to con- 



118 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

centrate capital, skill and personal influence with direct reference 
to attaining it, a liberal charter was obtained from the Legislature 
of Missouri, in 1857, incorporating the present association under 
the name and style of the " Western River Improvement and 
Wrecking Company." It has a capital of two hundred and fifty 
thousand dollars, and the right to increase the same to five hun- 
dred thousand dollars. The stock was readily taken, and is now 
held by some seventy or eighty stockholders, embracing many 
of our most prominent business men. 

The affairs of the company are conducted by seven directors, 
chosen annually, together with a president, vice president, su- 
perintendent, secretary, and treasurer, whose names we insert 
for the benefit of our readers : 

Directors. 
Charles K. Dickson, S. H. Laflin, 

Thomas H. Larkin, Charles Tillman, 

T. A. Buckland, E. W. Gould, 

James B. Eads . 
Officers of the Company. 
James B. Eads, President, S. H. Laflin, Vice President, 

Wm. S. Nelson, Superintendent, Wm. C. Buchanan, Secretary, 
Charles K. Dickson, Treasurer. 
For the above hasty and imperfect sketch of the operations 
of this company and its predecessors, from the commencement 
up to the present time, we have had to depend upon very insuf- 
ficient data, but, as limited as it is, we feel confident that it 
demonstrates the usefulness and efficiency of such an associ- 
ation. The charter of the company does not confine it to the 
Mississippi in its operations, but permits it to recover wreck- 
ed property in any part of the world, and to own and manage 
such steam vessels and dry docks as may be deemed proper. 
We look upon the Western River Improvement and Wrecking 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 119 

Company as a standing rebuke to the Government of the Uni- 
ted States. Instead of removing those obstructions which of- 
fer constant peril to the entire commerce of the west, the Gov- 
ernment leaves for private enterprise to do that which justice 
and right clearly point out as its duty. While millions 
upon millions of acres of land are donated for the building 
of railroads, which, in the end, mainly benefit a few specu- 
lators in lands and railroad stocks, not a dollar can be 
appropriated for the benefit of the thousands and hundreds 
of thousands who are compelled to use the western waters 
as a highway upon which to convey their products to mar- 
ket. In consequence of this injustice on the part of the Gov- 
ernment, we are continually meeting with losses that annually 
amount to a sum that would more than clear the river of all 
obstructions. In addition to this, in consequence of the obstruc- 
tions not being removed, we are subjected to enormous taxes, 
in the shape of insurance, upon whatever we may choose to 
ship and trust to the dangerous navigation of the rivers of 
the West. 

This is done, too, while millions of dollars are annually ap- 
propriated for the improvement of eastern harbors, thus virtu- 
ally giving assistance to a great number of foreign vessels 
which navigate those waters in connection with American ships, 
while western steamers and property are left to provide for 
themselves. 

This neglect had become so severe an evil, that the organi- 
zation of an association like the Western River Improvement 
and Wrecking Company was imperatively demanded. It stands 
forth now a tower of strength, an evidence of western energy, and 
an honor to the city from which it hails. Officered as the com- 
pany is by men of great experience in the business which they 
have undertaken, and rendered successful by the energy they 



120 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

have displayed in its management, this company is probably 
far more efficient than would be a Government fleet of the same 
character, managed, as it undoubtedly would be, by some east- 
ern engineer or western political mountebank. The only regret 
is, that the cost of all this neglect on the part of the Govern- 
ment falls upon the wrong shoulders. 

The company is a great savings institution to the public in 
another respect — to the insured and insurance offices in particu- 
lar — since it saves yearly vast amounts of property for the 
underwriters, and thus enables them to insure most descriptions 
of goods at a lower rate of per centage than could be done 
under the old regime, when no such company was in ex- 
istence. We much regret that we have neither time nor space 
to enter into this subject more fully. It is a matter of vital in- 
terest to western commerce and navigation. It is one that 
affects not only the steamboat interest, but the farmer and the 
mechanic, and indeed all who may have occasion to transport 
their products or handiwork on our rivers, and who may have 
to call to their assistance the skill and aid of this company. 
We trust to have occasion hereafter to give a more full state- 
ment of the company's achievements, and thus do it that justice 
which it so fully merits. 

The Western River Improvement and Wrecking Company has 
a standing salvage contract with nearly all the prominent Insu- 
rance Companies throughout the Union, by which it is empower- 
ed to save at once any property insured by them which may 
chance to be lost on the Mississippi river or on its tributaries, 
when sunk beyond the power of the master of the boat to recover 
with the means under his control. By this means no time is 
lost in making special contracts for each case — such delays be- 
ing likely to cause a loss of the whole property by its being cov- 
ered by sand, mud, &c. The peculiar nature of the Mississippi 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 121 

and Missouri rivers is such that, when a steamboat sinks, but a 
few days elapse (often but a few hours) before the shifting sands 
are washed from under some part of the hull, and it becomes so 
twisted, bent or broken, that it is impossible to^raise the boat. 
By this contract all unnecessary delay is avoided, and the rate 
of salvage is settled by the value of the property saved. 

The following is a copy of the advertisement of the Insur- 
ance Companies who are parties to this contract : 

"To whom it may concern. — We the undersignedjfosurance 
Companies, parties to a general salvage contract with the West- 
ern River Improvement and Wrecking Company of St. Louis, 
Mo., have appointed that company our general agents, with full 
authority to act for us in recovering any property ^insured by 
us, which may be lost in the Mississippi river and its tributa- 
ries, except on the Ohio above the Falls. And in the event of 
the sinking of any boat insured by either of us, it is particular- 
ly requested of the master to communicate with the Western 
River Improvement and Wrecking Company with all dispatch, 
and not to proceed to remove the engines, boilers, fixtures, &c, 
or in any manner injure the boat, or make any contract with any 
other parties for wrecking boat or cargo, before the agent of 
said Western River Improvement and Wrecking Company shall 
have visited the wreck. 
Union Insurance Company, St. Louis, 

by F. L. Ridgely, President. 
Marine Insurance Company, St. Louis, 

by D. Hough, President. 
Citizens' Insurance Company, St. Louis, 

by W. D. Wood, Secretary. 
St L(-uis Floating Dock and Insurance Co., St. Louis, 

by W. J. Fetter, Secretary. 




122 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

Lumbermen and Mechanics' Insurance Co., St. Louis, 
by J. N. Pritchard, Secretary. 

Atlantic Mutual Insurance Co., St. Louis, 

by C. C. Ferguson, Secretary. 

Millers' and Manufacturers' Insurance Co., St. Louis, 
by J. A. Brownlee, President. 

Merchants' Mutual Insurance Company, St. Louis, 
by S. H. Lowry, Secretary. 

St. Louis Insurance Co., of St. Louis, 

by Geo. K. McGunnegle, President. 

American Insurance Co., St. Louis, 

by S. R. Clarke, Secretary. 

Delaware M. S. Insurance Company, Philadelphia, 
by Edwrad Brooks, Agent. 

Commercial Insurance Co., Louisville, 

by P. B. Atwood, Secretary. 

Louisville Insurance Co., Louisville, 

by Wm. Prather, Secretary. 

Franklin Insurance Co., Louisville, 

by Abraham Hite, Secretary. 

People's Insurance Co., Louisville, 

by J.'L. Danforth, Secretary. 

Washington Insurance Co., Louisville, 
by W. Ross, Secretary. 

Jefferson Insurance Co., Louisville, 

by JohnJM ir, President. 

Louisville M. & F. Insurance Company, Louisville, 
by Wm. Sinton, Secretary 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 123 

Delaware Mutual Insurance Company, Philadelphia, 

by J. E. Tyler, Agent, 
Cincinnati Insurance Co., Cincinnati, 

by G. W. Williams, Secretary. 
City Insurance Co., Cincinnati, 

by N. Gregory, Secretary. 
National Insurance Co., Cincinnati, 

by H. C. Urnor, Secretary. 
Washington Insurance Co., Cincinnati, 

by Wm. Goodman, President. 
Firemen's Insurance Co., Cincinnati, 

by H. E. Spencer, President. 
Eagle Insurance Co., Cincinnati, 

by J. B. Stockton, Secretary. 
Merchants' and Manufacturer's Insurance Co., Cincinnati, 

by A. M. Searles, President. 
Queen City Insurance Co., Cincinnati, 

by W. H. McKinney, Secretary. 
Howard F. & M. Insurance Company, Philadelphia, 
Merchants' Insurance Co., Philadelphia, 
Exchange Insurance Co., Philadelphia, 
Atlantic F. & M. Insurance Co., Providence, R. I., 

by Taylor & Anthony, Agents, Cincinnati. 

Pennsylvania Insurance Company, Pittsburgh, Pa., 
by A. A. Carrier, Secretary. 

Pittsburgh Life, Fire and Marine Insur. Co., Pittsburgh, 
by R. Galway, President. 

Western Insurance Co., Pittsbugh, 

by F. M. Gordon, Secretary. 



124 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

Monongahela Insurance Co., Pittsburgh, 

by Jas. A. Hutchison, President. 

Great Western Insurance Company, Philadelphia, 

Merchants' Insurance Co., Philadelphia, 

by R. W. Poindexter, Agent, Pittsburgh. 

Delaware Mutual Insurance Co., Philadelphia, 

by P. A. Madeira, Agent, Pittsburgh. 

Protection Insurance Co., Nashville, 

by Samuel Seat, President. 

Nashville Commercial Insurance Co., Nashville, Tenn., 
by Alex. Fall, President. 

Tennessee M. & F. Insurance Co., Nashville, Tenn., 
by Joseph Vaulx, President. 

Sun Mutual Insurance Co., New Orleans, 

by Thomas Sloo, President. 

Eureka Insurance Company, o ^Pittsburgh, 

by R. Finney, Secretary. 
Home Mutual Insurance Company of New Orleans, 

by A. Brother, President. 

Crescent Mutual Insurance Company of New Orleans, 
by Thos. A. Adams, President. 

Citizens' Mutual Insurance Company of New Orleans, 
by 0. Gainard, President. 

Louisiana Mutual Insurance Company of New Orleans, 
by Chas. Briggs, President. 

Star Insurance Company of New Orleans, 

by Placide Forstall, President. 

Atlantic Mutual Insurance Company, New York, 
by J. D. Jones, President. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 125 

Union Mutual Insurance Co., New York, 
by F. Stagg, Secretary. 

Manufacturers' Ins. Co. of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, 
by A. S. Lippincott, President. 

Merchants' and Mechanics' Insurance Co., Philadelphia, 
by E. R. Helmbold, Secretary. 

Commonwealth Insurance Company, Harrisburgh, 

by S. S. Carrier, Secretary. 
State Mutual F. & M. Insurance*Co., Harrisburgh, 

by S. Ward, Secretary. 

Madison Insurance Co., Madison, Ind., 

by S. Pollems, Secretary. 
Mercantile, Fire & Marine Ins. Co., Covington, Ky., 

by E.^Henry Carter, President. 
Nebraska City Insurance Company, Nebraska City, 

by Chas. F. Holly, President. 
Office of the Western I River Improvement and Wrecking 
Company, Nos. 47 and_252^North Main street, St. Louis. 

JAMES B. EADS, President." 



126 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 



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SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 127 



CHAPTER X. 
RAILROAD S. 

In giving our Sketches of St. Louis and her business, we 
would be false to ourselves and to the task we have undertaken, 
were we to neglect to notice the Railroads which centre here ; 
they have exerted so powerful an influence in building up'our 
city that they have become identified with our present and future 
greatness, and deserve from the historian a much more ex- 
tended notice than we shall be able to give. 

THE OHIO AND MISSISSIPPI, 

which forms so conspicuous a link in the grand chain of Rail- 
roads connecting the West with the Atlantic seaboard, first en- 
listed the sympathies of St. Louis in the year 1852, and was 
then pushed forward with the utmost energy and swiftness till 
the last rail was laid on the 22d of April, 1857, amid the crowd 
of invited guests who were present to participate in the cere- 
monies. 

The early completion of this road wa3 brought about mainly 
through the indefatigable energy and perseverance of our fel- 
low-citizen, Mr. Henry D. Bacon, who, having once taken 
hold of it, let no obstacle, however great, dishearten him, but 
with his whole soul worked on, amid the difficulties, which sur- 
rounded him on all sides, until he had the proud satisfaction of 
seeing his labors crowned with success. In all his schemes, 



128 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

Mr. Bacon found an able and willing coadjutor in Mr. S. L. 
M. Barlow, a gentleman who shares with Mr. Bacon the honors 
their work reflects. 

In the spring of 1856, Mr. Bacon, finding that all the plans 
for the completion of the road were hopelessly surrounded with 
difficulties, and the prospect of its abandonment to the bond- 
holders imminent, he went from St. Louis to New York, called 
together seven or eight of his friends, among the capitalists 
of the latter city, and submitted to them a plan which he 
deemed favorable for the completion of the eastern division of 
the Ohio and Mississippi Railroad, and solicited their co-ope- 
ration. They were at first reluctant ; but finally, quite as 
much out of friendship for Mr. Bacon and desire to aid him in 
the completion of an enterprise that had prostrated him, as 
from any other motive, they adopted his plan, agreeing to ex- 
ecute it provided certain contingencies were complied with, and 
become responsible for the payment of three millions of dol- 
lars, the sum estimated as requisite to put the road in running 
order for the entire route. 

At that time there was a million of old floating debt to be 
arranged — old contractors to be settled with — new contracts to 
be made — bond- holders in England to be negotiated with, and 
the City Council of Cincinnati to be approached and concilia- 
ted to the proposed plan. On the 10th of May, 1856, the 
preliminaries were all arranged and disposed of, and the con- 
tract signed by the New York capitalists for the completion of 
the road in eighteen months. In less than a year iron was 
brought from Europe, the floating debt reduced to about one 
hundred thousand dollars, and the first train of cars passed 
over the road, between Cincinnati and St. Louis, carrying the 
guests who had been invited to participate in the celebration of 
the event. The grand railroad jubilee of 1857, in honor of 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 129 

the completion oE this road, will long be remembered as the 
grandest ovation ever offered, while at the same time it served 
to let the world know that, though we were situated upon the 
far western frontier, where, it is supposed by our eastern friends, 
the buffalo roams in unrestrained freedom, and wild Indians 
stalk in savage state through our streets, we had studied the 
art of hospitality and knew how to welcome our guests to 
our city, our homes, and our firesides, as only the frontiersman 
can. 

So soon as the completion of this road had been achieved, the 
company determined upon celebrating the event in a style and 
manner becoming the occasion. Thousands of tickets were dis- 
tributed in all parts of the country ; arrangements were made 
for the transportation of guests over nearly every road in the 
United States and Canada. The City Councils of Baltimore, 
Cincinnati, etc., were special guests. All the distinguished 
men of the day were requested to be present to give eclat to the 
affair. Never had arrangements been made upon so grand a 
scale. The city took part in the affair and determined to equal 
any of her former efforts, if not surpass them all. Prepara- 
tions were made, and when at length the day dawned upon our 
city every one was ready to join in the joys of the occasion. 
The guests were received amid the huzzas of the multitude — 
the booming of cannon and the music of the bands — the mili- 
tary were present in their gay uniforms, with glittering mus- 
kets and waving feathers, to escort them to the carriages pre- 
pared for the occasion. Then began the march to the Fair 
Grounds, where a splendid collation had been prepared. Here 
they were regaled with the hospitality of the borderer, such as 
every true son of the west delights to offer to those who visit 
him. Those who were present upon that occasion can never 
forget the manner in which they were received. It seemed as 
6* 



130 BKBXCUI HOOK Of)' ST. LOUIS. 

though each particular citizen had taken upon himself the task 
of: rendering the visitors' stay amongst us as pleasant as possi- 
ble. After spending several days in looking at our city, they 
departed for their homes, with an enlarged opinion of our peo- 
ple, our city, and especially the Ohio and Mississippi Railroad 
and its management. We do not intend here to speak of the no- 
ble conduct of th? Baltimoreans, who, after their return home, 
forwarded invitations to our citizens to come and visit them 
and accept the hospitalities of their city — how, when our dele- 
gation arrived there, they were welcomed to Baltimorean fire- 
sides as brothers — how they were feasted, feted and treated 
with the hospitality for which the Monumental City is so 
famed. 

The Ohio and Mississippi and Baltimore and Ohio Railroads 
won golden opinions from all sorts of people by their generosity, 
and since that time have become a favorite route with the tra- 
velling public. The excursions afforded the people an oppor- 
tunity of observing the manner in which these roads are con- 
ducted — of seeing and inspecting the admirable arrangements, 
and satisfying themselves of the peculiar advantages possessed 
by them over most other roads. 

For romantic beauty of scenery the country through which 
the route of the Ohio and Mississippi Railroad passes stands 
far in advance of all other routes in the West, and compares 
favorably with the much- boasted beauties of the Hudson river. 
The broad and extensive prairies of Illinois, where, in days 
gone by, the Illinois, Delawares, Peorias, Sioux, and other 
wild tribes — who made their homes upon the banks of the Illi- 
nois or Wabash rivers — hunted the buffalo, now present one of 
the loveliest pictures imaginable to the eye. Millions of varied 
colored flowers bloom in native sweetness, rendering the atmos- 
phere redolent by their perfumes — the lowing herds of the 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 131 

thrifty farmer grazing upon nature's bounteous pasture — the 
curling smoke ascending from the solitary cabin of the hardy 
pioneer-- the droves of wild deer playing in fancied security on 
the hill sides — the meandering streams skirted by tall waving 
pines — all serve to render the scene one of exquisite beauty ; — 
the villages, which have sprung into existence as if by magic, 
assist in affording the delighted traveller a view of one of na- 
ture's most beautiful and picturesque panoramas. 

Vincennes, the eastern terminus, is situated on the Wabash 
river, about one hundred and twenty- five miles from Indianapo- 
lis, the capital of the State. It is the capital of Knox county, 
and the oldest town in Indiana, having been first settled in 
1735 by a body of French Canadians. The country all around 
was one vast wilderness and remained so for many generations, 
its only tenants being the Indians, then very numerous, who 
lived on amicable terms with the colonists. Vincennes has a 
fine site along the left bank of the river ; it is laid out with 
great regularity, and its public and county buildings, churches, 
&c, are well finished edifices, and marked with great taste in 
their construction. There are several benevolent institutions in 
the town, a Roman Catholic ecclesiastical institute, and commo- 
dious public schools, private academies, &c, much attention 
being devoted to educational interests. It was once the capital 
of Indiana, previous to the seat of government being removed 
to Corydon. Its population, which is rapidly increasing, is 
about 6,000. 

Olney is a pretty little village of Richmond county, Illinois, 
thirty miles from Vincennes, on this route. It was first laid 
out in 1845, and contains about 800 inhabitants. Noble, Mid- 
dleton, Sandoval, Caseyville and other villages on the line of 
this railway have only sprung into existence within the last few 
years. They are all flourishing, prosperous places, having been 



132 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

greatly benefited by the construction of the road, and the unin- 
terrupted communication with the great cities of the West — 
Cincinnati and St. Louis. Another cause exists in the over- 
flowing stream of immigration to this part of the country, the 
fertile prairies and rich lands of the State of Illinois, offering 
especial inducements to persons engaged in agricultural pur- 
suits. 

We have already spoken of the scenery on the line of the 
Western Division. We now propose to speak of the beautiful 
things with which nature, with lavish hand, has decorated the 
Eastern Division. Leaving Vincennes, the snort of the iron 
horse is soon heard reverberating among the " knobs of the 
Forest State." Well do we remember, in the halcyon days of 
boyhood, of reading the thrilling deeds of daring performed by 
the early settlers of the then far West. Indiana, Ohio and 
Kentucky were the scene of many a fierce strife and bloody 
rencounter. The " dark and bloody ground" has become the 
household name for Kentucky, yet many were the deeds of 
blood committed upon the soil of the Hoosier State ; and could 
those wild hills, whose brows uplift toward heaven and are 
bathed by the morning dew, but speak, they could, indeed, 

" A tale unfold, whose lightest word 

Would harrow up thy soul ; freeze thy young blood, 

Make thy two eyes, like stars, start from their spheres, 

Thy knotted and combined locks to part, 

And each particular hair stand on end, 

Like quills upon the f retfulp orcupine." 

Those tall oaks, with tops upreared, and whose limbs, like 
an hundred weird -like fingers, are pointing to the heaven to 
come, would add to the bloody record their tales of interest. 
As onward you speed, at every bound nearing the Queen City 
of the West, new beauties come crowding upon you — over hill, 
through dale, and across plain, ever varying, until you reach 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 133 

the loveliest spot in all the west — the banks of the White river. 
One can scarcely believe as he swiftly glides along through the 
forest that girdles him in, and he hears naught but the rattle of 
the cars and the dash of the water- fall at the base of yonder 
picturesque mountain, or the rapid song of the whipporwill, that 
a half dozen hours ago he stood in the centre of the commer- 
cial metroplis of the West. The change could not be greater 
if he had been transferred to another planet. The paved 
street changed for the mountain slope — the rattle of the om- 
nibusses and carriages for the rush of the cars, as they are 
echoed back from the craggy precipices — the voices of the pass- 
ing multitude for the song of the rippling waters. Oh, how 
charming the scene ! See how lazily that tree swings its green 
top in the wind — how gently the brook goes, talking to itself 
through the forest — and how leisurely the very clouds swing 
themselves over the heavens, seeming delighted to linger for a 
moment amid scenes so enrapturing. While your eye is yet 
drinking in with delight the beautiful panorama before you, it 
is left far behind, and the vineyards scattered over the hills on 
the banks of La Belle river are before you — with one sweep of 
the eye around the horizon you take in an area of immense ex- 
tent and beauty. The luxuriant vines covered with clustering 
fruit, from which the sparkling Catawba is expressed, grow in 
abundance, and yield a large return for the fostering care given 
them. Along the banks of the Ohio you are borne, the land- 
scape upon the Kentucky shore giving variety to the scene, 
until South Bend is reached ; here is the tomb of the gallant 
General Harrison, sheltered beneath the overhanging trees 
which in life he loved so well. Anon, the smoke of the city is 
observed; soon we see the tall spires, and then hear the rattle 
of the cart, and the call of the porter, singing the praises of 
his hotel, and the passenger finds himself seated in the read- 



184 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

ing-room of the Burnet House, enjoying his fragrant Havana, 
before he has had time to feel weary, so delighted has he 
been. The day is near at hand when the superior scenery of 
the Ohio and Mississippi road will cause thousands to pass over 
it for the purpose of gazing upon it and feasting their eyes on 
the beauties of nature, bestowed with so lavish a hand. 

The connections of the Ohio and Mississippi are among the 
most important of all tLe many roads leading East. They 
are — at St. Louis, with the Pacific Railroad, Missouri river 
packets for all points in Kansas, Nebraska and Western Mis- 
souri ; with the Keokuk packets for all points on the Upper 
Mississippi ; and witli the steamers for Memphis and all towns 
on the Lower Mississippi. 

At Sandoval, with the Illinois Central, going north, through 
Patoka, Vandalia, Ramsey, Pana, Maeon, Decatur, Blooming- 
ton, Panola, Lasalle, Dunleith and Dubuque ; and on the Chi- 
cago branch of the Illinois Central, Mattoon, Totono, Chicago, 
&c. Leading south from Sandoval, we find they have the most 
direct route to Centralia, Richview, Tamaroa, Duquoin, Villa 
Ridge and Cairo. 

The indefatigable efforts of Mr. Isaac Wyman, the popular 
and favorite General Western Agent, together with several of our 
most popular and experienced steamboat captains on the lower 
Mississippi, have succeeded in establishing a line of Southern 
Packets to run in conjunction with the Ohio and Mississippi and 
Central Illinois Railroads. This line of steamers comprises a 
number of the finest boats on the western waters ; and are, the 
Imperial, Capt. Gould ; New Falls City, Capt. Montgomery ; 
Wm. M. Morrison, Capt. Bofinger ; City of Memphis, Capt. 
Kountz ; J. E. Woodruff, Cap. Rogers ; Pennsylvania, Capt. 
Klinefelter ; A. T. Lacy, Capt. Rodney ; New Uncle Sam, 
Capt. Van Dusen ; J. C. Swon, Capt. Jones ; Aleck Scott, 



SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 135 

Capt. Switzer — ten packets in all. They are first class steam- 
ers, unrivalled for speed, capacity of accommodation, and gen- 
eral appointments. There is not one of the ten but can make 
the trip from New Orleans to St. Louis in six or six and a half 
days. The captains are experienced commanders, who have 
earned a high reputation in this community, and the travelling 
public having occasion to go southward could not fall into more 
gentlemanly and skillful hands.. 

Rates of passage are fixed between St. Louis and all points 
below. Rates of freight are to be determined on, and thirty 
days' notice to be given of any change in the rates of either 
passage or freight. The packets agree to use all reasonable 
efforts to accommodate the business brought to them by the 
roads. The roads have established offices in Memphis and New 
Orleans for the sale of tickets and contracting for freight. The 
roads have also adopted measures to place tickets for the steam- 
boat line at all places East and North, where through tickets 
are sold, for the convenience of travellers to the South,; who 
can in this way be ticketed through from the East and North 
to New Orleans and all intermediate points. 

This arrangement will be a very great accommodation to all 
travellers passing between the North and South on the Missis- 
sippi, as it establishes that which has so long been wanted, a 
regular conveyance at fixed times and reasonable rates of fare ; 
while it will prove, as we trust, profitable to the companies, it 
will be advantageous and acceptable to the travelling and bu- 
siness community. 

This arrangement with the Packet Line was projected, as we 
have before stated, by the steamboat captains and officers of the 
Ohio and Mississippi Railroad ; and through the efforts of W. 
H. Clement, Esq., Superintendent, the Illinois Central was 
subsequently secured to cooperate. The public owe the above 



136 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

officers, both of the roads and boats, many thanks for their val- 
uable aid in rendering travelling facilities between New Orleans 
and the West, and St. Louis and the Atlantic seaboard, so rapid 
and comfortable ; and we mistake much if they do not render 
to them a bounteous equivalent by embracing the opportunities 
thus placed before them. 

The road connects at Vincennes with the Evansville and 
Crawfordsville Railroad for Evansville, Terre- Haute, Craw- 
fordsville, Indianapolis, &c. 

At Seymour, with the Jeffersonville Railroad for Louisville, 
Lexington, Frankfort, Jeffersonville, Indianapolis, &c. 

At Mitchell, with the New Albany and Salem Railroad for 
Louisville, Lexington, New Albany, Greencastle, Lafayette, 
Chicago, &c. 

At North Vernon, for Madison and points on the Ohio river. 

At Cincinnati, with the Little Miami, Central Ohio, Cleve- 
land, Columbus and Cincinnati ; Cincinnati, Hamilton and Day- 
ton ; Richmond, Eaton and Cincinnati ; Mad River, Lake Erie, 
Marietta and Cincinnati ; Cincinnati, Wilmington and Zanes- 
ville ; Steubenville and Pittsburgh Railroad, for all points 
North or East ; and Covington and Lexington Railroad, for 
the interior of Kentucky ; the Maysville Packet Line for Mays- 
ville and Kanawha river. 

The Ohio and Mississippi Railroad is the best stocked road 
in the West, having now about fourteen hundred freight and 
baggage cars, one hundred passenger cars, and sixty locomo- 
tives. Their greatly increasing business will soon demand a 
large increase, which we feel assured in asserting will be provP 
ded as fast as the demand increases. They have in successful 
operation two of the most complete machine shops and locomo- 
tive works in the country — one located at each end of the 
road — where a large force of excellent workmen are constantly 
employed. 



SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 137 

A great part of the road is now ballasted and by fall the en- 
tire route will be in the most complete running order of any 
road in the United States. Contracts have also been entered 
into for fencing the entire route and will soon be completed. 

The officers of the road at present are, Mr. Jos. W. Alsop, 
of New York, President Eastern Division ; S. L. M. Barlow, 
of New York, President Western Division ; W. H. Clement, of 
Cincinnati, General Superintendent, both Divisions ; P. W. 
Strader, of Cincinnati, General Ticket Agent, both Divisions ; 
Isaac Wyman, of St. Louis, General Agent and Western Man- 
ager ; all of whom are gentlemen of large experience in rail- 
road matters. 

The selection of Mr. Isaac Wyman as General Western Agent, 
was characteristic of the management, evidencing a desire to 
render every thing agreeable and comfortable to the travelling 
community. Mr. W. is a gentleman who has won for himself 
an enviable reputation by his courteous and affable manner to- 
wards all who come in contact with him. In Mr. W. this road 
has found a worthy representative, and one who has done much 
towards gaining for it the reputation it now bears. 

The Ohio and Mississippi Railroad is the only road in the 
West that is built upon the broad guage principle. We have 
always been an advocate of this principle of building railroads, 
believing that it affords a greater degree of security against ac- 
cidents, independent of the increased capacity for accommoda- 
tion to travellers. There has lately been placed upon this road 
a couple of those newly invented sleeping cars, which, we are 
convinced, will become before long popular to such a degree as 
to drive the present inconvenient car out of use. 

There are two trains leaving East St. Louis daily, carrying, 
besides a host of passengers, the United States mail and 
Adams' Express matter. They have their hours of starting so 



138 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

arranged as to arrive in Cincinnati in time for the trains East, 
thus affording a speedy transportation hence to the Atlantic. 
The passenger, in taking the Ohio and Mississippi Railroad, 
can, on entering the cars, find himself a bed, if he gets on 
board a sleeping car, and sleep till he arrives in the Queen City 
without having to change cars. A courteous and gentlemanly 
set of conductors are in charge of the trains, and efficient engi- 
neers conduct the engines, giving security that " all is well." 

When the route of this road was first surveyed it wa3 through 
a deep forest of trees and across the broad prairies of Illinois. 
Miles and miles were often traversed without a single habitation 
being discovered. Now almost the entire course is dotted with 
villages or teeming with golden grain, which springs like magic 
from the face of the earth wherever it is tickled by the plow or 
hoe of the husbandman. No better farming land can be found 
in the world ; no better market for the products of the farm 
than St. Louis. Where five years ago was a vast field of na- 
tural pasturage, now can be found a busy village cf four thou- 
sand inhabitants, cheerfully performing the duties of the me- 
chanic and adding their portion of worldly goods to the grand 
total of Western wealth. Where a few short years ago naught 
but the sighing of trees and the rustle of the tall grass, as the 
gentle zephyrs played over and around them, disturbed the re- 
pose of nature, now can be heard the ringing sounds of the 
woodman's axe as he levels the huge trees to the ground, and 
the merry voice of the herdsman as he watches his immense 
herds of stock. All this, and much more, is owing to the build- 
ing of the Ohio and Mississippi Railroad. Indeed we owe much 
to the rapid settlement and development of the West to the 
building of our railroads, and to none more than the Ohio and 
Mississippi. 

Cincinnati, Ohio. — The metropolis of the State, and is 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 139 

called" the " Queen City of the West." It is the most populous 
city of the Western States, and the largest inland city in the 
Union. It occupies two terraces, or even surfaces, about 
twelve miles in circumference, surrounded by beautiful hills, 
rising to a height of about 300 feet in gentle slopes, which are 
mostly covered by native forest trees. 

The shore of the Ohio river, at the principal landing-place, 
is paved to low water-mark, and supplied by floating wharves, 
or, what in Cincinnati are termed wharf-boats, adapted to the 
great rise and fall of the river, which renders the landing at all 
times convenient. The handsomest portions of the city are 
Broadway, Pearl, Walnut, Fourth and Eighth streets. At the 
foot of Main street is the public landing or levee — an open area 
often acres, with 1,200 square feet front. 

Cincinnati is one of the great emporiums of the western States. 
It is the principal mart for the pork and bacon trade in the Uni- 
ted States ; the receipts for hogs, pork and bacon, amounting 
to $5,486,592 for the year 1852; in 1854, this had increased 
to $8,310,290 ; and is now in a most flourishing condition. 
The climate in and around Cincinnati is peculiarly favorable for 
the cultivation of the vine, and the wine made from the Catawba 
grape is of excellent quality. Over 220,000 gallons are pro- 
duced annually. 

There are several first-class hotels in Cincinnati, as the 
Burnet, Spencer and Broadway Houses ; also the Walnut-street 
and United States Hotels. Of restaurants, the St. Charles, 
William Tell, and Debolt, are the principal. Cincinnati was 
originally called Losanteville, and was settled in 1788. It 
was incorporated as a city in 1819. In 1800, it contained 750 
inhabitants ; in 1840, 46,000 ; 1850, 115,000 ; 1856, 200,- 
000. Previous to the arrival of the trains at Cincinnati, pas- 
sengers will be waited upon by the baggage agent, who passes 



140 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

through the cars ; by giving him their baggage-check, he in re- 
turn will give them an omnibus ticket, which entitles them to 
one seat in the omnibus and the carriage of one trunk to any 
part of the city. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 141 



CHAPTER XL 
RAILROADS— ( Continued. ) 

THE GREAT ILLINOIS CENTRAL RAILROAD. 

This road commences at Dunleith, a town situated on the 
east side of the Mississippi river, directly opposite the beauti- 
ful and flourishing city of Dubuque, in Iowa. It passes south 
sixteen miles, through the city of Galena, the centre of the 
great lead region of the west, thence easterly fifty miles, after 
which it takes a southerly course, in an almost straight line, 
passing through the following important towns : Nora, a town 
of some 1000 inhabitants, where two years ago there were none ; 
we find next Freeport, where it connects with the following 
railroads, viz., Racine and Mississippi and Chicago Union Rail- 
road, for all towns and cities east or west. 

Passing along still in a southerly course, you next reach a 
town called Polo, which in 1855 had no inhabitants, and has at 
present 3500. You next come to the beautiful village of 
Dixon ; as you approach it, its appearance is beautiful, being 
situated on a side hill, commanding a view for miles around. 
It has many beautiful churches and public buildings, as well as 
many magnificent private residences. Dixon has at this time 
about 6000 inhabitants ; it is the terminus of the Dixon Air 
Line Railroad. 

The next town of importance we come to is Amboy. This 
place is quite pretty, and very much resembles some of the 



142 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

New England towns, the streets being very wide and very regu- 
larly laid out, and well supplied with shade trees. It has about 
3000 inhabitants, when in 1850 it had but sixteen persons* 
The next place of importance is Mendota, where connections 
are made daily with the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy R. R. 
for Chicago and the east ; also for Galesburgh, Quincy, Keokuk, 
Burlington, and all points in the west. At Mendota the travel- 
ler will find a magnificent depot, and one of the best hotels in 
the Union connected with it, under the management of a clever 
fellow, by the name of Akin, who is always ready to supply the 
wants of the inner man. This place at present has about 1800 
inhabitants, and is fast increasing in population. 

The next town is La Salle, another large and flourishing vil- 
lage, and one that has grown with great rapidity the last few 
years. Fifteen years ago it had a population of 500 persons, 
and now it has about 8000. At this point close connection 
with trains from the north and south are made daily with the 
Chicago and Rock Island Railroad for Chicago and the east, 
and Rock Island, Davenport, Iowa City and the west. After 
leaving La Salle, we pass through the following nourishing vil- 
lages : Lena, Nora, Rutland and Wenona, all of which have 
been settled within the last three years ; the largest of these 
towns has about 2000 inhabitants — the smallest about 900. 
The next we come to is El Paso, where connections are made 
daily with the Peoria and Oquaka Railroad for Peoria and inter- 
mediate places. 

We keep still on our way south, continually passing through 
thriving towns and villages, until we reach the beautiful city of 
Bloomington. This city contains some very handsome build- 
ings, mostly built of brick, neatly and tastefully ornamented. 
Bloomington had in 1852 about 1500 inhabitants — it now has 
7000 ; it is lighted with gas, and is situated so as to make it 



SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 143 

very pleasant, the grounds being quite rolling. Leaving Bloom- 
ingtonwe pass Ileyworth, Wapello, Clinton, Macon, Forsyth, to 
Decatur. This is another important point, it being the connec- 
tion of the Great Western Railroad, where passengers change 
cars for Springfield, Jacksonville and Naples ; also for points 
in the east. Decatur is quite a city, having about 5000 inhabi- 
tants, and many fine buildings. We leave Decatur, passing over 
the most beautiful prairie lands in the State, until we arrive at 
Pana. At this point connections are made by all trains with 
the old reliable Terre Haute Railroad, to and from St. Louis 
and the east. 

Our next connections are made with the Broad Gauge Ohio 
and Mississippi, from St. Louis for Cairo and all points in the 
south and east. From Sandoval we proceed to Centralia, a 
city where the company have erected capacious and substantial 
depot buildings, as well as engine houses, work shops, &c, 
forming almost an entire city within themselves. This place 
has about 3000 inhabitants ; in the year 1854, only four years 
ago, there were none. We leave Centralia, passing through 
several neat and pretty towns, which have been recently settled, 
until we get to De Quoin and Dc Soto ; these are celebrated for 
their beautiful location, and for the numerous coal mines. At 
these points coal of the best quality is found ; it is said by 
all who have used it to be the best known in the State. The 
next town is Carbondale, which is also very beautiful, although 
small ; it being quite new, the houses are mostly built in amongst 
the trees, making it shady and very pleasant during the summer 
season. We next come to Jonesboro, which has attained quite 
a celebrity for its productiveness ; at this place there is acre 
after acre laid out and cultivated as gardens for early vegetables 
and fruits — such as peaches, apples, tomatoes, and in fact all 
kinds, which are raised in abundance and in advance of any 



144 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

other part of the country. From Jonesboro we pass hastily 
along until we reach Cairo ; Cairo is at the terminus of the 
mainline, and where we connect with all boats bound down the 
Mississippi and up the Ohio rivers. Passengers taking the cars 
at St. Louis twenty- four hours after the boats have left are sure 
of certain connection with the boats for all points at Cairo. 

The company have now a line of ten new first class boats, 
which make daily connections with all trains arriving and 
departing from Cairo. Passengers desirous of remaining in 
St. Louis after boats have left can do so, and engage state 
rooms, passage, &c. , to Vicksburgh, Natchez, Memphis and 
New Orleans, at the office of the company, No. 50 Fourth 
street, St. Louis. 

A branch of this great road leaves the main line at Centralia, 
one hundred and eighteen miles above Cairo, diverging to the 
north-east and terminating at Chicago. At Mattoon connec- 
tions are made with the Terre Haute Railroad for Chicago, and 
all points in the north and east ; the connections are close and 
certain. There are at present two daily express passenger 
trains running from and to St. Louis from Chicago, Dunleith, 
and intermediate points, without change of cars or baggage. 
These trains are furnished with new and beautiful state room 
cars, such as can not be surpassed by any in this country ; in 
fact it is the only road running through this part of the western 
country which has such magnificent equipments. The company 
have at present something like one hundred and seventy large and 
powerful engines, all from the best manufactory in the world, 
and that is Rogers, Ketchum & Grosvenor's ; and rolling stock 
and equipments sufficient of all kinds to supply any demand, 
both for the transportation of freight and passengers. They 
have erected at all places where connections are made with other 
roads (where passengers are obliged to change cars) the most 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 145 

substantial and best arranged depots in tbe United States, all of 
which are supplied with all the modern improvements, and ladies' 
and gent's sitting rooms, well furnished, to make the passen- 
gers comfortable. The best hotels are also in the depot build- 
ings at these points. The road has been constructed by the best 
mechanics and contractors in the country, and the company has 
spared neither pains nor expense to make it what it is now 
called by the travelling public — the model railroad of the coun- 
try. It is managed by men who have been selected with care 
by its directors from the principle roads in the States — men who 
are not only scientific men, but men of long practical experience. 
When we name its managers, and you examine into their expe- 
rience, you will find that most all of them have commenced at 
the foot, and by industry and perseverance are now managing 
the largest and most prosperous road in the world. We will 
take the President, W. H. Osborn, who is celebrated as being 
one of the best financial men in the country, and his manage- 
ment of this road shows it. J. C. Clark, Esq., is the king of 
superintendents of this western country. — a self-made man at 
that. John C. Jacobs, the Superintendent of the North Divi- 
sion, is celebrated for his energy and promptitude in whatever 
he undertakes. R. Forsyth, Esq., the General Freight Agent, 
is another of the same stamp ; he is one of the most popular 
freight agents extant, and in fact all of the officers are of the 
same mould. The entire length of this road is seven hundred 
and seven miles, and has a line of telegraph with an operator 
at each station, thereby securing to the traveller safety, speed 
and comfort. Passengers leaving St. Louis for any of the 
northern, eastern, or southern points, by calling on the General 
Agent, at 50 Fourth street, St. Louis, will receive all informa- 
tion in relation to all routes out of St. Louis, or any informa- 
tion he will impart with his usual ease and willingness to the 
7 



146 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

inquirer. All who call on Mr. Hinman, the General Agent, 
will find him polite and ready to accommodate them. 

Mr. Wm. P. Johnson, the General Ticket Agent, is a 
thorough -going man, and one who has not his superior in the 
world ; he is one of the most courteous, affable and gentlemanly 
persons we have ever met ; he is a general favorite with the 
travelling community. As to Mr. Hinman, we confess our 
inability to do him justice. He is one of the kindest and most 
noble-hearted gentlemen in the world, and has won scores of 
friends to the Illinois Central Railroad by his judicious man- 
agement. May he long live to guide and direct the affairs of 
the St. Louis office, for none more worthy can be found. 

The managers of this road have recently placed one million 
five hundred thousand acres of land (a part of the grant made 
them by the State of Illinois for the purpose of insuring the 
construction of this road) in the market, and offer it upon terms 
so favorable that no one need longer want a homestead. They 
offer to the settler lands, all along the line of the road, upon the 
following terms : The first payment to be made in two years 
from date of purchase, and one-eighth every year thereafter, 
until the whole is paid for, while only three per cent, interest on 
the back payment is demanded. As a security for the perform- 
ance of the contract, the first two years' interest must be paid 
in advance. 

Land may be selected in accordance with the individual tastes 
of purchasers ; some sections of country are best adapted to 
corn, others to wheat, some producing both equally well ; some, 
again, seem peculiarly favorable to stock raising ; others to 
fruit growing or fancy gardening ; some portions are heavily 
timbered ; on some, timber just covers one corner, or is scattered 
in occasional groups or groves. Frequently, in a single section 
of six hundred and forty acres, all these qualities are combined, 



SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 147 

together with living water ; and the settler finds a home, only 
requiring a moderate expenditure of labor to establish him com- 
fortably for life. 

The system of long credits and low rates of interest, estab- 
lished by the company, is estimated by experienced farmers in 
the State as being worth, to the actual settler, from thirty to 
fifty per cent, per annum, by enabling him to invest his ready 
money immediately in the cultivation of the land, so that from 
his being able to take up so much more than the man who locks 
up his funds in a cash purchase, and the immense returns from 
land placed under cultivation, he soon finds himself far in 
advance. 

Illinois is known throughout the United States as the Garden 
State of the Union, and, from the extraordinary fertility of the 
soil, is justly entitled to the name. Its vast tracts of rich, roll- 
ing land were called by the first French settlers " Prairies," 
which, translated, means " natural meadows," and such they 
are ; almost the whole State is a natural meadow, lying in 
high, beautifully rolling, or gently undulating prairies, with a 
soil of surpassing and inexhaustible fertility, all ready for the 
plough, without a rock, stump, or even stone, to interrupt its 
action. The difficulties experienced in the eastern States, or 
in western timbered States, in bringing lands under cultivation, 
are unknown here ; the soil is readily turned over at the rate of 
two acres to two acres and a half a day, by a heavy team of 
horses or two yoke of oxen, or it maybe contracted to be worked 
at from $2 to $3 per acre, and an active practical man can 
readily cultivate ten acres here, against one in the Eastern or 
Middle States, taking them as they run, while the yield per 
acre will be infinitely greater. With far less labor, a farm 
purchased here at the low rates ruling at present will yield 
more than one there valued at $100 to $150 per acre. The 



148 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

soil is a dark, rich vegetable mould, varying from two to eight 
feet in depth, capable of producing any thing in the greatest 
profusion which will grow in these latitudes at all, and abso- 
lutely inexhaustible in its fertility. Instances could be multi- 
plied of land cropped for twenty to thirty successive years, 
without the addition of a pound of manure, on which the growth 
last season was just as vigorous and the yield as profuse as on 
any other of the series. Crossing the prairies are belts of 
white oak, hickory, black walnut, ash and maple timber, of 
excellent quality, generally following the courses of the streams, 
varying from half a mile to five miles in width, in many places 
running far out on the prairie, or scattered in groves here and 
there over its surface. The State, as a general thing, is well 
watered, the streams usually running over sandy or stony beds ; 
besides ponds of constant stock- water, which are found in all 
parts of the prairies. For household purposes, excellent soft 
water is found at from 10 to 25 feet in depth, generally spring- 
ing from a stratum of sand. Settlers from the East are always 
agreeably disappointed in the character of the land in this re- 
spect ; a prevailing though erroneous impression having gone 
forth, that on the prairies good water was difficult to be found. 
The first crop on newly broken prairie is generally sod corn ; as 
this requires no cultivation between planting and gathering, the 
farmer has ample time to get things comfortable about him, and 
prepare the land for sowing winter wheat before cold weather 
comes on. From this sod crop it is the expectation to realize 
sufficient to pay the cost of breaking, improvements, and gen- 
eral expenses, placing the land in a high state of cultivation on 
the opening of the second season. It has averaged from thirty 
to thirty-five bushels per acre, often running up to fifty. 
Wheat averages from twenty-five to thirty bushels per acre, 
frequently reaching thirty- eight and forty, and during the past 



SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 149 

season has been selling at the various railroad stations at from 
§1 00 to $1 50 per bushel. The second crop of corn aver- 
ages from sixty to eighty bushels, frequently giving one 
hundred. 

Any desired information in relation to these lands can be 
obtained of John Wilson, Land Commissioner, Central Illinois 
Railroad Company, Chicago, Illinois. 



150 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 



CHAPTER XH. 
RAILROADS— ( Continued. ) 

CHICAGO, ALTON AND ST. LOUIS RAILROAD. 

This road has been in successful operation several years, and 
being the first route that opened railroad communication be- 
tween St. Louis and the Atlantic seaboard, it gained a favor- 
able reputation long before any competitors had entered the 
field, and has managed, by strict attention to the wants of the 
travelling and transporting community, as well as a courteous 
and affable manner in the intercourse which exists between the 
employees on the road and the public, not only to maintain its 
old position, but to gather new laurels with which to garnish 
their already victorious wreathed brow. Possessing the advan- 
tage of being the only air- line between St. Louis and Chicago, 
it is no wonder that, while other roads pine under the "small 
feed" they obtain, that this road should grow fat and good- 
humored. The country through which this road passes is one 
of the most productive in the Prairie State. Thousand upon 
thousands of acres are under cultivation, giving to the husband- 
man a rich reward for the care and labor bestowed. The gol- 
den grain yields forth in rich abundance, and makes joyous the 
hearts of the tiller of the soil. The lowing herds are seen graz- 
ing upon nature's pastures, and growing fat from the sponta- 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 151 

neous productions which there exist in such abundance. The 
whole scene presented to the wayfarer is one of much pastoral 
beauty, while the almost illimitable fields, blooming with varied 
colored flowers, and filling the air with perfume, present to the eye 
a scene of picturesque beauty and of romantic interest. Where 
but a few years since the red man chased the buffalo, or pursued 
with no less deadly intent his savage foe, the magic wand of 
civilization has been swayed, and towns and villages appear. 
The hunting grounds of Tecumseh and Black Hawk are now the 
wheat fields or grazing pastures of the thrifty Illinois farmer, all 
of which dream-like change has been brought about by the build- 
ing of railroads. Wherever the iron horse neighs, there can be 
found peace, prosperity and plenty. 

The Hon. J. A. Matteson, ex-governor of Illinois, is the 
president of this road, and has won for himself more honor by 
his judicious management of the affairs of this road than he did 
by his successful career as chief magistrate of the Sucker 
State ; possessing an intuitive knowledge of what the public 
will require, he always manages to forestall their wants, and is 
ready to serve them with the readiness which should character- 
ize all public functionaries. In a host of local agents, Mr. M. 
finds auxiliaries of much weight, and to whose assistance the 
road owes much for the favorable position it has gained in the 
minds of the people. 

The affairs of this road in St. Louis has been entrusted to 
the hands of Mr. E. B. Brown, than whom a more efficient and 
courteous gentleman and officer can not be found. Possessing 
in an eminent degree all those qualities of head and heart which 
endear the possessor to all who come in contact with him, he 
stands among our business men esteemed and respected by every 
one. His office, at No. 27 Fourth street, is the head quarters 



152 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

for all information concerning the affairs and transactions of the 
Chicago, Alton and St. Louis Railroad. 

This route passes through the towns of Carlinville, Springfield 
and Bloomington, which can only be reached in a direct route 
by this road ; these towns are of some note. Springfield, the 
capital of Illinois, contains about 14,000 inhabitants and claims 
to be the second city in importance in the State. It contains 
many very beautiful buildings, both public and private, which 
give the town a very pleasant appearance. The village of 
Bloomington is a neat and beautiful place, having a lovely lo- 
cation, and possessed of many advantages, situated at a point 
where the Illinois Central Railroad connects with the Chicago, 
Alton and St. Louis Railroad ; it has had a growth so rapid as 
to surprise even the most sanguine advocate of railroad pro- 
gress. 

The connections of this road are at Springfield with the 
Great Western Railroad for Jacksonville, Decatur, State Line, 
&c, making this the most direct route to Fort Wayne, Pitts- 
burgh, Toledo, Cleveland and the East, by the way of the Wa- 
bash Valley Railroad ; at Peoria junction, with the Peoria and 
Oquawka Railroad for Peoria, Galesburgh, Burlington and 
points on the Bureau Valley Railroad ; at Joliet, with the Rock 
Island Railroad for Ottawa, Peru and Rock Island, which is 
the only direct route to Central Iowa ; at Chicago, with the Ga- 
lena and Beloit Railroad, making this the preferable as well as 
most expeditious route to Central Wisconsin, Galena, Du- 
buque, St. Paul and other points on the Upper Mississippi. 

The Eastern connections from Chicago are by the Michigan 
Central, via Detroit and Suspension Bridge, connecting with the 
Grand Trunk Railway of Canada to Montreal and Lower Ca- 
nada, and by the Michigan Southern, via Toledo, Cleveland, 
Dunkirk and Buffalo. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 153 

There are two trains leaving each end of the road for the con- 
venience and transportation of the United States mail and the 
express matter and the travelling public. The arrangements 
for the transportation of freight are perfect in every respect, 
and all contracts are put through with dispatch, giving entire 
satisfaction to all the patrons of the road. 



TOLEDO, WABASH VALLEY AND GREAT WESTERN RAILROAD. 

This railroad having for a starting place the city of Toledo, 
in the State of Ohio, runs in a south-westerly direction through 
the valleys of the Maumee and the Wabash for about two hun- 
dred and twenty miles, from which direction it diverges in a 
due westerly course on the State line of Illinois, and continues 
on through Springfield, the capital of the latter State, to Na- 
ples, a flourishing village on the Illinois river, a distance of 
four hundred and twenty-three miles from the eastern terminus, 
under the superintendence of Mr. George H. Brown, Superin- 
tendent for the Eastern, and Mr. George Watson, Superintend- 
ent for Western Division. 

These companies are now pushing the work forward towards 
completion to the city of Quincy, one of the most flourishing 
places on the Upper Mississippi, and which, when finished, 
which it will be in the course of a few months, will make the 
entire route, under the control of this company, four hundred 
and seventy-four miles long. 

A road is now being constructed for the purpose of connect- 
ing Quincy with the St. Joseph and Hannibal Railroad, which 
runs across the northern part of the State of Missouri, having 
for a western terminus St. Joseph, on the Missouri river. This 



154 SKETCH BOOK OE ST. LOUIS. 

route, when finished, which it will be in all probability during 
the coming year, will present to the world one of the best 
routes to the far West — Kansas, Nebraska, Utah, &c. — that 
can be pursued. 

The Wabash valley, through which the eastern portion of this 
road passes, is the garden portion of the "Forest State," 
abounding in landscapes of pastoral beauty, and wild scenes of 
picturesque magnificence, unsurpassed by any portion of the 
United States. Numberless villages dot the banks of the ro- 
mantic Wabash, possessing many attractions to the pleasure 
seeker, and richly repaying the traveller who selects this route. 

One place which attracts the attention of the wayfarer with 
peculiar interest is the thriving city of Lafayette. This place 
is situated on one of the most delightful locations on the Wa- 
bash river, and contains about 12,000 inhabitants ; it is the 
principal commercial town of Indiana, and does an immense 
business every year in produce and pork-packing. Adjoining 
this town is the Tippecanoe battle field, where General Harri- 
son and the gallant troops under his command defeated the In- 
dians under Prophet, Tecumseh's brother. This ground is 
owned by the State, and is enclosed by a neat fence, and has 
been the scene of many a political gathering, where the great 
struggle for principles have been fought over again. 

The connections of this road with others are as follows : The 
Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne and Chicago Road meets the South- 
western and Western Road at Fort Wayne. It will be seen by 
the map that this furnishes a very direct route from Pittsburgh 
to St. Louis and Springfield and Naples. Bj this route but 
one change is necessary to be made between Pittsburgh and St. 
Louis, either of freight or passengers, and the length of line of 
the Pittsburgh road, which will be occupied by the Western tra- 
vel and business insures the influence of that road and of 



SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 155 

the business done from Pittsburgh to the "West. So from Phil- 
adelphia there are but two changes necessary to be made, viz., 
at Pittsburgh and Fort Wayne. A large amount of business 
may be expected from this source. 

At Peru, distant 130 miles from Toledo, we meet the Peru 
and Indianapolis road, connecting with Indianapolis, and from 
thence, by two other roads, to the Ohio river. Already a very 
important and valuable traffic from the Ohio river has passed 
over this route. 

At Logansport a most important connection will be made 
with a road now in process of construction to Peoria, in Illi- 
nois. This road will be completed in the course of a year, and 
leading directly west, furnishes the most direct route to the 
southern part of Iowa. 

At Attica, by the construction of thirty-one miles, a connec- 
tion will be made with the Evansville and Terre- Haute road, 
which connection, it is hoped, will be made in the course of 
this year. 

At Lafayette it connects with the Lafayette and Indianapo- 
lis Railroad, for Indianapolis, Cincinnati, etc. ; with New 
Albany and Salem Railroad, for Grcencastle, New Albany, 
Michigan City, Chicago, &c. 

This road has a splendid rolling stock, consisting of the best 
manufactured cars and locomotives, and has in its employ a 
skillful corps of engineers — no better evidence of which can be 
found than the fact that, although this road has been in run- 
ning operation for near three years, not a single accident re- 
sulting in loss of life has ever occurred. This must be most 
gratifying to the management and convincing to the travelling 
community. In fact all the officers of this road are noted for 
their urbane, courteous and gentlemanly conduct towards all 



156 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

with whom they come in contact. We would like to specify 
several from whom we have received delicate attention, but are 
denied that pleasure from not being in possession of their 
names. But of one thing we wish to make particular mention, 
and that is the station hotels. These are conducted upon sound 
principles, evidencing a desire to render every accommodation 
to the wearied travellers who are thrown in their way, and com- 
paring to the great disadvantage of many on other roads. We 
speak by the book, for we have been entrusted to the tender 
mercies of these land-sharks more than once. But on this line 
of travel the public will always find every attention that could 
be expected or desired. 

The management of this road have recently succeeded in ef- 
fecting arrangements with the Chicago, Alton and St. Louis Rail- 
road by which they are enabled to put passengers through to 
the East in as short time as any other route leading from St. 
Louis. With but one change of cars between St. Louis and 
Cleveland — baggage checked through to Dunkirk and Buffalo — 
the certainty that as quick time as the fastest will obtain — to- 
gether with the attractiveness of the country through which this 
route passes, all combine to make it a favorable route to those 
going East or coming West. 

The officers of this road are, Wm. A. Boody, of New York, 
President ; W. Colburn, of Toledo, Vice President ; S. H. 
Burrows, Superintendent ; E. B. Brown, General Agent in St. 
Louis. 

Mr. Brown is also the General Agent in St. Louis for the 
St. Louis, Alton and Chicago Railroad, and is well known to 
our citizens as a courteous, obliging and efficient officer, and 
one who has done much to place these roads in so favorable a 
position before the public. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 157 

The arrangements for the transportation of freight are such 
as to be sure of attracting a portion of the vast business which 
is annually offered. The road is well stocked and presents as 
good an appearance as any of the many excellent roads which 
checker the western States. 



158 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 



CHAPTER XIII. 
RAILROADS— ( Contented.) 

TERRE-HAUTE, ALTON AND ST. LOUIS RAILROAD. 

The work upon this road was commenced in the summer of 
1852, and was prosecuted with unparalleled energy, notwith- 
standing various difficulties and discouragements, until the lat- 
ter part of the month of February, 1856, when the entire track 
was complete and ready for the first passage of the iron horse 
from the shores of the Atlantic ocean to the banks of the Mis- 
sissippi — thus giving to St. Louis the first direct route to the 
East via the Bellefontaine Railroad, and the first direct route 
to Cincinnati. The location of this road, with its superior con- 
nections for all Eastern, Northern, North-eastern and South- 
eastern cities, renders it of vast importance to the business in- 
terests of St. Louis, and occupying, as it does, a central posi- 
tion between the Chicago and Cincinnati route, (and at the 
same time from its connections being a dangerous rival for the 
business of both those places,) it seems to us almost impossible 
for another route of even equal advantages to be located. It 
is admirably situated for a heavy and profitable local traffic, 
traversing a large stock-growing and agricultural region, passing 
through the far-famed prairies of Illinois — presenting alternate 
views of prairie, ridge prairie and woodland. The lands along 



SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 159 

its borders are being rapidly settled — new villages are spring- 
ing up with astonishing growth — the older towns are improving 
steadily — and an air of thrift is apparent along the entire line 
which warrants liberal expectations for the future. The coal 
lands of the company are now being mined, and, as they are 
very rich and extensive, will prove a source of great revenue to 
the company, and of immense advantage to the manufacturing 
interests of St. Louis. 

The length of this road, from the banks of the Mississippi at 
St. Louis to the banks of the Wabash at Terre-Haute, is one 
hundred and eighty- seven miles. The track is well built upon 
an almost level ridge prairie, with but few cuts, and little or 
no trestle work in comparison with the generality of western 
railways. At the crossings of small water-courses especial 
attention has been paid to the safety of the work. The bridges 
are built of the heaviest timber, and the culverts are as strong 
as the most massive masonry can render them. The track is 
laid with the heaviest T rail upon large well made ties, and 
secured by a patent chair, and being well ballasted can be run 
with safety at a high rate of speed. The company have open- 
ed large gravel pits, and are constantly engaged in the work 
of ballasting. This adds to the strength and solidity of the 
road — rendering the track level and firm, and cars run along 
upon it as smoothly as upon a well- polished floor. This road 
has been noted for the ease and comfort one finds in riding 
over it ; and, it is, in a great measure, to be attributed to the 
attention paid to ballasting. The company own and are run- 
ning thirty-one Express Passenger and Freight Locomotives. 
They have been carefully selected and are equal to any manu- 
factured in the United States. Many of them are known as 
Minute Engines. Being of great power and speed, it is but 
an easy matter for them to keep on time and insure connec- 



160 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

tions — a very important consideration to the passenger. They 
have thirty splendid first class passenger cars, built in the latest 
style with all the new improvements — they are very wide and 
roomy and are furnished in the most superior manner. The 
seats are large, with high backs, enabling a person to sit or 
recline at his pleasure. We had thought that there could be no 
improvement upon these cars, until informed that this company 
have contracted for a number of Woodruff's celebrated Patent 
Sleeping Cars. This is a new invention, lately patented, and 
consists of sectional seats so formed that they can be changed 
into berths in a moment and at the pleasure of the passenger — 
they form small apartments, and a gentleman and and his fam- 
ily can be almost as comfortable in one of them as in the rooms 
of our best hotels. Taking the night train on this route from 
St. Louis the passenger can retire to bed, and in the morning 
awaken at Indianapolis for early breakfast. All of these cars 
are furnished with saloons, and contain every improvement that 
can add either to the pleasure or the comfort of the traveller ; 
they are remarkable for the ease with which they ride — are kept 
very clean and neat, and as an additional comfort the passen- 
gers are constantly supplied with good water by train boys kept 
expressly for the purpose. In addition to the first class passen- 
ger cars, they have some twenty second class or emigrant cars, 
an equal number of baggage and mail cars, four hundred and 
fifty freight and stock cars ; and are constantly making addi- 
tions to their rolling stock as the increase of business demands. 

The American Express and Valentine Freight Express Com- 
pany run over this road, and have almost a world-wide reputa- 
tion. Both these companies furnish their own cars, and add 
greatly to the business of this line. 

During the spring and summer season four daily trains are 
run over this road (both ways), viz: two lightning express 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 161 

trains, one express mail, and one through freight train. These 
trains are under the charge of efficient and energetic conduc- 
tors, who combine the qualities of faithful officers and perfect 
gentlemen. Passengers are treated with every attention — all 
questions politely answered, and every one made to feel " at 
home." This has added greatly to the popularity of this favor- 
ite route. 

CONNECTIONS. 

The various connections of this road are valuable, and have 
been maintained heretofore with a most liberal and accomodat- 
ing spirit. In order to give a clear and perfect idea of the 
location and importance of this road we shall give its connec- 
tions in full. 

Leaving St. Louis with her smoky manufactories — her large 
and imposing warehouses — her levee lined with steamers from 
all the navigable waters of the west, and crowded with the pro- 
duce of all sections, we take the cars at East St. Louis, better 
known as "Bloody Island," from its being the battle-ground 
upon which the citizens of St. Louis formerly settled their per- 
sonal difficulties according to the " code of honor," and pass- 
ing through the " American Bottom" soon arrive at the 
" Junction," where passengers bound for Alton take the "Junc- 
tion train," and are soon landed in the " City of Hills." Leav- 
ing the Junction, we pass the thriving village of Bethalto, and 
soon reach the " prairies of Illinois," rapidly passing the towns 
of Bunker Hill, Gillespie, Clyde, Litchfield, Hillsboro', Irving 
and Nokomis, we arrive at Pana, ninety-three miles east of 
St. Louis, and the junction of the Terre-Haute, Alton and St. 
Louis and mainline of the Illinois Central Railroad. 

1st Connection. — At Pana, with main line of Illinois Central 



162 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

Railroad, for Vandalia, Sandoval, Centralia, Jonesboro' and 
Cairo, on the south ; and for Decatur, Bloomington, Peoria, 
LaSalle, Burlington, Rock Island, Iowa City, Mendota, Dix- 
on, Fulton City, Freeport, Galena, Dunleith and Dubuque, on 
the north. Also, connecting at Dunleith with the magnificent 
passenger packets of the " Minnesota Packet Company," for 
Lacrosse, Wenona, Prairie du Chien, Stillwater, St. Paul, and 
all points in Minnesota and the North-west Territory. The 
river scenery from Dunleith to St. Paul rivals the far-famed 
scenery of the Hudson river. The " Maiden's Leap," Lake St. 
Croix, and many other interesting points memorable in Indian 
history, are passed, until the pleasure- seeker finds himself at 
the " Falls of St. Anthony," abounding in the most magnifi- 
cent works of nature. 

Leaving Pana, a " Prairie City" in embryo, we quickly 
reach Shelbyville, quite an important place and the eating 
station on this road. We must here state that those who are 
fond of good eating and an abundance of it will find it here, 
and also sufficient time to eat with comfort — without fear of be- 
ing disturbed by that disagreeable sound to a hungry person, of 
" all aboard." Having refreshed the " inner man," we at once 
take our seat in the cars, and are passing in rapid succession 
Thornton, Windsor and Summit stations, and soon reach Mat- 
toon, the junction with the Chicago Branch of the Illinois Cen- 
tral Railroad. 

2d Connection. — At Mattoon, with the Chicago Branch of 
the Illinois Central Railroad — for Effingham, Oden, Centralia 
and intermediate points on the south; and switching off a car 
for the north, another locomotive takes charge of it and swiftly 
passes out of sight in the direction of Chicago — thus giving 
passengers a delightful ride in splendid state-room cars from 
St. Louis to the " Lake City" without change. At Tolono, 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 163 

connecting with the Great Western, Toledo and Wabash Rail- 
road — for Lafayette, Fort Wayne, Toledo, and all northern 
and eastern cities. Leaving Tolono, we swiftly glide by the 
beautiful prairie towns of Urbana, Rantoul, Pera, Loda, Che- 
banse, the French settlement of Kankakee, Manteeno and in- 
termediate stations, and soon arrive at the Great Central Depot 
in Chicago, where connections are made with the Michigan Cen- 
tral, Michigan Southern, Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne and Chicago, 
Chicago and Milwaukee, and all railroads terminating at Chi- 
cago. 

Leaving Chicago by the Michigan Central and Michigan 
Southern, passengers have choice of the Great Canada route 
via Suspension Bridge or Lake Shore route, for the north and 
east. 

Leaving Mattoon, the beautiful towns of Charleston, Ash- 
more, Kansas, Dudley, Paris, and other intermediate stations, 
are rapidly passed, and we arrive at Terre- Haute on the banks 
of the Wabash river, where^connection is made with the Terre- 
Haute and Richmond Railroad (one of the best managed roads 
in the country), for Indianapolis. 

Leaving Terre-Haute, we*pass "numerous stations until we 
arrive at Greencastle, the junction of the Terre-Haute, and 
Richmond, and New Albany and Salem Railroads, the latter 
running due north from New Albany to Michigan City. 

Leaving Greencastle, we run B due east through a beautiful 
section of country ; [passing Fillmore, Clayton, Plainfield, 
Bridgeport, and numerous other thriving towns, we arrive at 
Indianapolis, the capital of Indiana, and the great railroad 
centre of the West. This city has a population of forty thou- 
sand, with many fine public buildings, and is noted for the 
superiority of its hotels. It is beautifully situated — has a 
large and growing business — and is the great centre of the Rail- 



164 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

roads of the West, no less than eight roads terminating at this 
point in a Great Union Depot. 

Connections at Indianapolis. — 1st with those old and 
popular routes, the Bellefontaine and Indiana Central Rail- 
roads. — The Bellefontaine Railroad runs due north-east 
from Indianapolis to Cleveland, passing through Anderson, 
Union, (junction of Columbus, Piqua and Indiana Railroads,) 
Dallas, Hardin, Pemberton and Bellefontaine, where connection 
is made with the Mad River and Lake Erie Railroad, for Forest, 
Clyde, Sandusky, and all points on the Lake shore. Continu- 
ing on from Bellefontaine, we soon reach Galion, where we 
connect with the Cleveland, Columbus and Cincinnati Railroad 
on an air line for Cleveland, Dunkirk, Buffalo, Niagara Falls 
and intermediate points on the Lake shore. At Dunkirk, New 
York and Boston, passengers take the New York and Erie 
Broad Gauge Railroad, passing through the Great Valley, Gen- 
esee, Hornellsville, Corning, Elmira, Tioga, Owego, BiDghamp- 
ton, Great Bend, Susquehanna, Deposit, Port Jervis, and Pat- 
terson to Jersey City, presenting some of the most beautiful 
views of mountain scenery in New York, and passing through 
the celebrated Goshen Valley, made famous by the superior 
quality of its butter. Or continuing on to Buffalo and Niagara 
Falls, (viewing this stupendous work of Nature,) take the 
cars of the New York Central Railroad (double track), passing 
through Batavia, Rochester, Palmyra, Canandaigua, Seneca 
Falls, Auburn, Syracuse, Rome, andUtica to Schenectady, where 
passengers for the celebrated Saratoga Springs, Troy, and 
Rutland, Vermont, leave us, and we continue on to Albany, 
the capital of the " old York State." Having thus passed 
through many of the most populous and business cities of the 
State, we take the cars of the famous Hudson River Railroad, 
giving us many beautiful views of the magnificent scenery of 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 165 

the Hudson river as we glide along swiftly towards the Great 
Eastern Metropolis of New York ; or, leaving Albany in the cars 
of. the Western Railroad, we pass through Springfield, Worces- 
ter, and many of the most enterprising towns and cities of 
Massachusetts, until we find ourselves safely landed in Boston, 
the "city of Notions;" or, leaving the Bellefontaine Railroad 
at Creslline, the junction with the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne and 
Chicago Railroad, we take the cars of the latter road, running 
due east to Pittsburgh, where we connect with the Great Penn- 
sylvania Central Railroad, passing through the most beautiful 
section of Pennsylvania — giving us views of the most rugged 
mountain scenery, interspersed with the most beautiful valleys. 
Blairsville, Johnstown, and Altoona, one of the most lovely and 
romantic spots, are passed, and we arrive at Harrisburgh, where 
passengers bound for Baltimore take the cars of the Northern 
Central Railroad, whilst we continue on direct to Philadelphia, 
passing through the city of Lancaster and the celebrated Lan- 
caster Valley, the garden spot of Pennsylvania. 

Leaving Philadelphia in the cars of the Camden and Amboy 
or New Jersey Railroad, passengers are soon landed in New 
York, thus giving them an opportunity of visiting " the city of 
Brotherly Love" en route. 

Leaving Indianapolis on the cars of the Indiana Central 
Railroad, we run due east, passing though many most impor- 
tant and flourishing cities, amongst which are Cambridge City, 
Centerville and Richmond, until we arrive at Dayton, where 
connection is made with the Mad River and Cincinnati, Hamil- 
ton and Dayton Railroad, for points north and south. Con- 
tinuing on from Dayton, we pass through Xenia, Cedarville, 
Charleston and Jefferson, and arrive at Columbus, the capital 
of Ohio, where passengers by the Indiana Central take cars 
for Cleveland and Pittsburgh, with connections as by Bellefon- 



166 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

taine Railroad ; or, continuing on from Columbus due east 
through Newark, Steubenville, and Rochester, to Pittsburgh. 
Taking the cars of the Central Ohio Railroad at Columbus, we 
run in a south-easterly direction through Newark, Zanesville, 
and numerous other thriving towns, until we strike the banks 
of the Ohio at Belle -Air, crossing over to Benwood in Virgi- 
nia, four miles south of Wheeling. Then taking the cars of 
the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad at either of the latter named 
places, we soon pass through the Board Tree Tunnel and find 
ourselves amidst the magnificent mountain scenery of Virginia, 
rapidly passing the beautiful mountain towns of Fairmount, 
Fetterman, Grafton, Oakland, Altamont, Piedmont, and Cum- 
berland, Hancock, Martinsburg, and Harper's Ferry, where 
passengers change the cars for Winchester. Continuing on 
from Harper's Ferry, we pass the Point of Rocks, Ellicott's 
Mills, &c, &c, and arrive at the Washington junction, where 
passengers for Washington City, Alexandria, Richmond, and 
the South leave us and take a southern direction, whilst we con- 
tinue on nine miles farther to Baltimore ; thus giving New 
York passengers the privilege of visiting the cities of Baltimore 
and Philadelphia on the way. 

Thus, it will be seen, that New York and eastern passen- 
gers have choice of no less than five different routes, viz., the 
New York Central, New York and Erie, Pennsylvania Central, 
Baltimore and Ohio, and the Great Canada route via Chicago. 

But to continue the connections from Indianapolis — with the 
Indiana Central (via Richmond and Hamilton) and Indianapo- 
lis and Cincinnati Railroads to Cincinnati, where connections 
are made with the Little Miami, Cincinnati, Hamilton and 
Dayton, and all roads terminating at that place — With the Jef- 
fersonville Railroad, for Seymour, Louisville, Frankfort, Lex- 
ington, &c. Connecting at Louisville with the Louisville and 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 107 

Nashville Railroad — With the Madison and Indianapolis Rail- 
road for Madison, &c. — also with the Indianapolis and Lafay- 
ette, and Indianapolis and Peru Railroads, to many of the 
most important places in Indiana. 

At St. Louis, connections aro made with the North Missouri 
Railroad for St. Charles, Warrenton, Montgomery City, ;md 
points on the north side of the Missouri river — With the Pacific 
Railroad and Lightning Line of Packets, for Hermann, Jeffer- 
son City, Lexington, Kansas City, Leavenworth, and points on 
the Missouri river, to Weston — With the Iron Mountain Rail- 
road, to Carondelet, Jefferson Barracks, Potosi, and other 
southern points. 

Also, connecting with the following lines of first class pas- 
senger steamers, viz : The Union Packet Line, of twelve splen- 
did steamers — leaving St. Louis daily for Jefferson City, Boon- 
ville, Lexington, Kansas, Leavenworth, Weston, and all inter- 
mediate points, to St. Joseph. Connecting at St. Joseph with 
the Council Bluff and Omaha City packets — the Merchants' and 
Independent Lino of first class steamers through to Kansas, 
St. Joseph, Council Bluff, Omaha City and St. Louis — also, 
with the Keokuk Packet Line, for Hannibal, Quincy and 
Keokuk. 

We have thus given but an imperfect sketch of tho various 
connections of this Great National Route, a full description of 
its connections and sub- connections requiring more room than 
tho size of this volume will permit. By an examination of a 
correct map of our country, it will bo seen that it is the great 
trunk road from St. Louis with its branches spreading at In- 
dianapolis to all points. By a continuance of tho present lib- 
eral management, we believe it is destined to bo one of tho 
best paying and certainly one of the most popular railroads in 
the Western country. 



168 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOOIS. 

During the past year the number of passengers conveyed over 
this road was two hundred and twenty-one thousand eight hun- 
dred and seventy-six. The trains have been run with great 
regularity and care, and no accident of any kind has occurred 
involving the slightest personal injury to any passenger. 

The Company employ Valentine &Co's. Omnibus and Freight 
Express Line for the purpose of conveying passengers and 
freight to and from the depot. The omnibusses call at all of 
the hotels, steamboats, railroad depots, and private residences, 
for passengers and baggage, and convey them to the cars free 
of charge ; and are always found awaiting the arrival of the 
cars, when passengers are taken to their residence in the city 
without delay. This is one of the best managed omnibus lines 
in the country, and the whole system of collecting and distri- 
buting passengers is much superior to the plan adopted in the 
east. Valentine & Co. own sixteen splendid four- horse pas- 
senger omnibusses, each accommodating from twelve to twenty- 
four persons ; eight large baggage wagons, besides forty-eight 
freight wagons, trucks and machinery wheels. They employ 
none but the most careful and polite drivers, under the charge 
of a most gentlemanly and accommodating Manager or Con- 
ductor. 

Hon. Thos. Allen, of St. Louis, late President of the Pacific 
Railroad, is the President of this road. Mr. A. has gained for 
himself the reputation of one of our most public spirited men, 
is a shrewd financier — talented and energetic — and adds great 
strength to the company. 

L. R. Sargent, Esq., of St. Louis, one of the oldest and best 
practical railroad men in the United States is Superintendent. 
In his selection the Board of Directors have displayed good 
judgment. Mr. S. possesses every quality requisite, of most 
indefatigable energy and business capacity, and, by his uniform 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 169 

kindness and accommodating manners to all, has rendered him- 
self one of the most popular men in the West. To him, and 
his worthy assistant, Mr. S. F. Tenny, belongs the credit of 
securing to this route the quickest time ever made between St. 
Louis and Cincinnati, New York, Baltimore, Philadelphia, and 
the East. Mr. S. has now completed arrangements by which 
the cars will run through to Indianapolis without change. 
This will prove the most popular move ever made on this route, 
and will secure a large proportion of the through travel. For 
this, and for many other changes made for the interest of the 
travelling and shipping community, Mr. Sargent deserves the 
thanks of the public. 

Mr. B. F. Fifield is all that could be asked for in a Gen- 
eral Ticket Agent. With a most gentlemanly and pleasing 
address he unites the requisite business qualifications. His 
name is as well known with the travelling community as "house- 
hold words." He is fully posted on all the Railroad, Steam- 
boat, Stage and Canal Routes, and with a friendly smile upon 
his amiable looking face imparts his information to the travel- 
ler. His name adds great strength to this favorite route. 

Capt. James Beebee, is the General Freight Agent. The 
Captain is well known to the business men of the West, and he 
enjoys their fullest confidence. The proper dispatch and regu- 
lation of freight transportation is one of the most difficult and 
harassing portions of railway management, and this depart- 
ment could not be placed in abler hands than Capt. Beebee's. 

Mr. A. A. VanWormer is Superintendent of the Belleville 
Division of this Road. He is energetic and competent, and 
jas rendered himself quite popular by his exertions to please 
the travelling community. 

Mr. John S. Miller is the master Machinist. He is well 
known as one of the most skillful mechanics in the country, 
8 



170 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

and his name is a sufficient guaranty that the Rolling Stock will 
be kept in first class order. Mr. Miller is one of the inventors 
and owners of Woodruff's celebrated Patent Sleeping Car — all 
of the inventors and owners of which, we are happy to say, are 
employees of this road. 

The President's, Superintendent's and general business offi- 
ces of the Company are in the Marble Building, north-east 
corner of Fourth and Olive streets, St. Louis. Their Freight 
Depot is at the corner of Second and Poplar streets. 

The chief Ticket Office of the Company is at No. 32 Fourth 
street, under the Planters' House. This office is under the 
charge of Mr. Fred. M. Colburn, a native of St. Louis, and 
well known to the business community of the West for the past 
fifteen years. They have an office also at No. 36 North Levee, 
oetween Olive and Locust streets. 

A Telegraph Line is now being constructed by the Company, 
which will add greatly to the management of tha t ains, and 
afford additional facilities for the transaction of business. 

We must now close our sketch of this Great Eastern Cen- 
tral Route from St. Louis — believing that it is destined to be 
the most important Railroad in the West : and deserves to be 
so, not only from its location, but from the efforts of its officers 
in working for the interests of the travelling and shipping com- 
munity as well as the interests of the road. These interests are 
identical, and will be so proved in the success of; this Company. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 171 



CHAPTER XIV. 



RAILROADS— ( Continued. ) 



ST. LOUIS AND IRON MOUNTAIN RAILROAD. 

The St. Louis and Iron Mountain Railroad begins in the 
south part of the city of St. Louis, leading southward through 
the grounds of the United States Arsenal, along the river bluffs, 
to the city of Carondelet ; thence traces the bank of the Mis- 
sissippi to a point twenty-five miles south of the city of St. 
Louis, where it abruptly leaves the river, crossing a slight eleva- 
tion into the valley of Sandy creek, which it follows for a short 
distance ; thence over a low ridge falling into the valley of the 
Joachim creek, which it frequently crosses, until, finally, at a 
distance of forty mil s from the city, it rises out of this 
valley, crossing a ridge dividing it from the valley of Big river, 
piercing the summit of this ridge through a tunnel eight hun- 
dred feet long. The road then follows down this dividing ridge, 
crossing Big river forty- seven miles from the init al point. 
After following the valley of this stream a short distance, it 
intersects the valley of Mill creek, a tributary of Big river, 
continuing in it however but a few miles. From thence it 
crosses the drainage of the country, until, at a distance of sixty - 
six miles from the city, it again crosses Big river. Leaving it 



172 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

by the valley of Dry creek, the road ascends and crosses, 
seventy- four miles from the city and six hundred and seven- 
teen feet above it, a dividing ridge between the waters flowing 
into the Mississippi seventeen miles south of St. Louis, and the 
water flowing through the Ozark Mountains by the St. Fran- 
cois river, in Arkansas. At a distance of two miles south from 
the last point named, it crosses the St. Francois river, reaching 
the " Iron Mountain " at a farther distance of two and two- 
third miles, being seventy-nine miles from the depot at St. 
Louis, and at an elevation above it of six hundred and fifty- 
five feet. From this point the line is extended a farther dis- 
tance of six miles, ending at the " Pilot Knob," eighty-five 
miles from the present depot at Lami street in the city of St. 
Louis. 

The road bed is now nearly completed the entire length of 
the line. The iron is all paid for, and the road would have 
been completed ere this had not the general derangement inci- 
dent upon the financial crisis caused a part of the work to be 
stopped. However, as matters now stand, it will be completed 
by the middle of March or first of April. 

This railroad passes over a rough portion of the State of 
Missouri, leading into a part of the country inexhaustible in 
the ores of iron, lead, copper, manganese, cobalt and other 
minerals. Immense and inexhaustible quarries of granite, su- 
perior marble, and even rock salt, exist in the neighborhood of 
the Iron Mountain and Pilot Knob. Beautiful white and red 
sandstone, porphyry, and other rocks of equal value, are also 
abundant near to and along the line of the railroad. Extensive 
forests of yellow pine skirt the road, inviting an extensive in- 
vestment of capital in the manufacture of lumber. We are 
informed that one company alone has at this time over a mil- 
lion of feet of pine lumber cut, near the town of Potosi, 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LODIS. 173 

awaiting the opening of the road, to be brought to St. Louis 
for the market. This business, together with the manufacture 
of iron, copper, lead, &c, will absorb an immense amount of 
capital seeking safe investment. 

There is no road leading to ISt. Louis that will be of half the 
value to the city as the St. Louis and Iron Mountain. At the 
present time five-sixths of the iron in this market is brought 
here from Pittsburgh, Wheeling and other distant points ; and 
more than two millions of dollars is sent annually from St. 
Louis to pay for iron and nails sold here, besides the cost of 
pig metal used by our foundries. By constructing this road 
to the Iron Mountain and Pilot Knob, rolling mills and nail 
factories would spring up, and the foreign article would soon 
be driven out of the market. In fact, even at this date, before 
the road is completed, we have in our midst two of the most 
extensive rolling mills in the world. By the construction of 
this road we are enabled to secure a sufficient quantity of 
ore from that region to supply an hundred mills, and that too 
at a cost that will defy competition. 

From an estimate made by one of the engineers engaged in 
surveying the road, it appears that there is ore enough in the Iron 
Mountain, above the level of its base, to make one hundred and 
five million tons of iron ; and the Pilot Knob and Shepherd's 
mountain, and the adjacent banks, would furnish probably a 
still greater quantity ; — so that, within eighty miles of St. 
Louis, and within a space of seven miles, we have iron enough 
to supply the world for centuries to come, without descending 
below the base of those mountains. The quality of these ores 
is well known. For the manufacture of steel, and for all mal- 
leable purposes, they have no superior. 

The Iron Mountain and Pilot Knob are the largest and 
most extraordinary deposits of iron in the known world ; the 



174 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

quantity, the quality and the facility of obtaining the ores are 
the distinguishing features of these inexhaustible stores of 
wealth. 

The ore of these mountains is what is known by mineral- 
ogists as specular oxide. Fair specimens yield by analysis 
from sixty-five to sixty- six per cent, of pure iron, six to eight 
per cent, of earthy matter, (alumina and silica,) the remainder 
oxygen. There is nothing combined, therefore, with the ore 
in its natural condition to prevent the production of the finest 
metal. The ore of the Iron Mountain is remarkable for its 
uniformity of character ; the smallest specimen accidentally 
picked up is a fair specimen of the entire mass. That of the 
Pilot Knob is more variable. In some places, particularly 
near the summit of the mountain, it assumes somewhat of a 
porphyritic character, and consequently involving a greater 
amount of earthy matter than above stated : but much the 
largest part of the Knob appears to be as pure as the Iron 
Mountain. 

The ore of the Iron Mountain covers an area of about five 
hundred acres. Tbe mountain is situated in the valley of the 
St. Francis, and rises about two hundred feet above the plain 
of country that surrounds and entirely separates it from all 
other elevations. The mountain has been estimated to contain 
two hundred and twelve million tons of ore above the base. 
The ore usually presents itself in lumps or boulders, from the size 
of pebbles up to those of two or three hundred pounds in weight, 
and thousands of tons can be picked up upon the mountain with- 
out the use of crowbar or pick. The ore is so pure and free 
from other substances that no difficulty has been found in work- 
ing it directly into blooms. 

The Pilot Knob covers an area about equal to the Iron Moun- 
tain, and rises to an elevation above the adjacent valleys of 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 175 

about five hundred feet. On the northern side of the Pilot Knob 
the ore rests upon red porphyry, and is here seen to dip with 
considerable rapidity towards the south from the culminating 
point of the mountain ; therefore it may be assumed to be iron 
ore down to at least a level with the adjacent valley, or say five 
hundred feet thick. 

Near the Pilot Knob stands tbe Shepherd Mountain, abound- 
ing in rich ores that are highly magnetic and said to produce 
steel of the finest quality. There are several deposits of rich 
iron ore in the neighborhood. 

The Pilot Knob and Shepherd Mountain belong to the Pilot 
Knob Iron Company, who are actively engaged in the manufac- 
ture of pig metal and blooms. 

The Iron Mountain belongs to the American Iron Mountain 
Company, who are largely engaged in the manufacture of pig 
metal, which is now carried to Ste. Genevieve in wagons, a dis- 
tance of forty miles, at which point it is worth for shipment from 
two to three dollars per ton more than the Tennessee and Ohio 
metal. 

The ore of these vast formations is quite in demand at the 
river, and sells readily at Ste. Genevieve for ten dollars per ton 
for shipment to the Ohio. This pays well for the hauling, when 
the teams are not engaged in transporting metal and blooms. 

The St. Louis and Iron Mountain Railroad will bring these 
great resources of wealth within four hours' transit of St. Louis, 
and the ore can then be furnished to manufacturers in St. Louis 
at three dollars per ton, including all expenses. The common 
ores usually cost that price at the furnace. 

The streams on the road afford an abundance of fine water 
power, suitable for forges and furnaces, in the midst of fine 
timber, and we may soon expect to see such establishments dot- 
ted all along the railroad. 



176 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

At St. Louis the ore will be met by the Cannel coal from 
the Osage, brought over the Pacific Railroad. Experiments 
have shown that this coal can be substituted for charcoal with- 
out impairing the quality of the iron, and experienced iron mas- 
ters are sanguine of making rails, by the use of Cannel coal, 
direct from the ore, and of a quality, for toughness and dura- 
bility, superior to any now in use. 

i?The road to the Pilot Knob will develop other valuable de- 
posits of iron ore, as well as lead and copper. About one mile 
south-west of the mountain is an immense quarry of granite, 
of pure quality, and equal to the Iron Mountain in quantity. 
There are fine marble and sandstone quarries in the same neigh- 
borhood. The railroad, in its extension from the Pilot Knob 
to the Arkansas line, with branches to Cairo and New 
Madrid, will continue some distance through a rich mineral 
country, covered with pine of the finest quality. The comple- 
tion of the Iron Mountain road, with the branches and exten- 
sions, must soon develop the long hidden resources of South- 
eastgMissouri, and add to the wealth'of our city and|State. 

The following gentlemen are the officers~of this road for the 
year 1858, and are eminently qualified for the position they 
hold : 

Madison Miller, President. 

Louis V. Bogy, Vice-President. 

Stephen D. Barlow, Secretary and Treasurer. 

J. B. Moulton, Chief Engineer. 

Samuel A. Holmes, Attorney. 

Directors. — H. T. Blow, L. Babcock, Louis V. Bogy, H. 
B. Belt, H. C. Lynch, A. H. Hackney, F. A. Dick, Benjamin 
Farrar, George Gherke, J. H. Lightner, John Simonds, Madi- 
son Miller, Jas. Harrison. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 177 

A gentleman (Prof. Swallow) of rare geological attainments 
estimates that the coal beds of Missouri can furnish 100 ; 000,000 
tons per annum for the next thirteen hundred years. Another 
authority of equal weight, Dr. Shumard, says that there are 
480,000,000 tons of coal in St. Louis county. The coal beds 
of Illinois, lying but a short distance from the river and paral- 
lel with it, are of unlimited extent. The Osage and Callaway 
coal, which is inferior to no other kind for every process in 
the refining of iron ore, can be made available at small cost in 
manufacturing the finer branches of the iron business. The 
day is not distant when the right bank of the Mississippi will 
glow with furnaces, and the streets of St. Louis glitter w 7 ith 
the marble and iron which the operation of this road will ren- 
der cheap building materials. This may seem extravagant to 
some, but slight reflection on the facts adduced will make it 
evident that a less flattering exposition would be incorrect, and 
unjust to the prospects disclosed. 



8* 



178 ShBTCn BOOK OP ST. MUIA. 



CHAPTER XV. 
RAILROADS— ( Continued. ) 

THE PACIFIC RAILROAD. 

The Pacific Railroad was incorporated by the Legislature of 
the State of Missouri on the 12th Marth, 1849. The company 
was organized in January, 1850. The surveys were commen- 
ced in June, 1850, and the work of construction was commenced 
in 1851, the ground being broken on the 4th of July of that 
year. 

The line of road commences at the corner of Seventh and 
Poplar streets, in the city of St. Louis, and will terminate at 
the western boundary of the State, in Jackson county, imme- 
diately at the junction of the Kansas and Missouri rivers, where 
the flourishing town of Kansas City is situated, the distance be- 
ing two hundred and eighty miles. 

The location of the road passes through the counties of St. 
Louis, Franklin, Gasconade, Osage, Cole, Moniteau, Cooper, 
Pettis, Johnson, Cass and Jackson ; and the towns of Kirk- 
wood, Glencoe, Allenton, Franklin, South Point, Washington, 
Hermann, Osage City, Jefferson City, California, Otterville, 
Georgetown, Warrensburg, Pleasant Hill and Independence are 
situated upon or near the line of road. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 179 

From St. Louis the road ascends westwardly to the dividing 
ridge between the Missouri and Meramec waters, reaching the 
summit at Kirkwood, thirteen miles ; it then descends to the 
Meramec, at the Meramec station, eighteen miles, which stream 
it follows for nineteen miles to the town of Franklin, Franklin 
county, thirty-seven miles. At this point the South-west 
Branch diverges from the main line. From Franklin the main 
line ascends to the divide at Gray's summit, whence it descends 
to the Missouri at South Point, fifty-two miles from St. Louis, 
and then follows the south bank of the river to Jefferson City, 
one hundred and twenty-five miles. In this distance it passes 
through the towns of Washington, sixty miles, and Hermann, 
eighty- one miles, and crosses the Gasconade and Osage rivers 
eighty-eight and one* hundred and sixteen miles. From Jeffer- 
son City the road follows the river four miles to the mouth of 
Gray's creek, and then ascends the valley of that stream to its 
head, reaching the high prairie land, one hundred and forty miles 
from St. Louis. From this point to the western boundary of 
the State the line traverses the high prairie country. Near 
Round Hill, one hundred and sixty-four miles, the Missouri 
Central Railroad, from Boonville twenty-four miles distant, 
will connect with the road ; crossing the valley of the Lamine, 
near Otterville, one hundred and seventy- three miles ; thence to 
a point about three miles south of Georgetown, one hundred 
and eighty-nine miles, and then crossing the valleys of Big 
Muddy and of several tributaries of the Blackwater it reaches 
in Cass county the valley of Big creek, a branch of the Osage, 
and passes near Pleasant Hill, two hundred and forty nine 
miles ; thence to the valley of the Little Blue, which it crosses, 
and ascends the Independence ridge, upon the summit of which 
and one mile north is located the city of Independence ; then 
descending the ridge to the Missouri, at the mouth of the Big 



180 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

Blue, which it crosses, the line continues on the river to Kansas 
City. The graduation and masonry is completed for one hun- 
dred and sixty- two miles, to Round Hill. A large amount of 
work has been done on the eleven miles immediately west of 
this point, and several heavy points are under construction in 
Johnson county. 

The track is now laid to California, one hundred and fifty 
miles, and twelve miles more to Round Hill will be laid in time 
for the summer's business. 

The graduation of the first one hundred and forty miles of 
this road has been exceedingly heavy, and very costly, travers- 
ing as it does for fifty miles the broken country between St. 
Louis and the Missouri river, and then occupying for the next 
eighty miles the bluff bank of the Missouri/encountering in this 
distance four tunnels of an aggregate length of twenty- six 
hundred feet, a very large amount of exceedingly costly rock 
excavation, and the expensive bridges over the Gasconade and 
Osage rivers, near their mouths — the first being eight hundred 
feet, and the second twelve hundred feet long — with numerous 
smaller bridges, from sixty to one hundred and sixty feet 
span. 

The work of graduation and masonry has been faithfully ex- 
ecuted, and will compare favorably with the best roads in the 
country. The masonry is of a much better character than is 
customary upon western roads. The bridging is excellent, all 
but one being the improved Howe truss, and that one a McCal- 
lum bridge of two hundred and ten feet clear span. 

The track of: the road conforms to the established guage of 
the State — five feet six inches — and is laid in the most sub- 
stantial manner ; the rail weighs sixty pounds per yard, and 
are placed and fas ne upon ties of large size, with two 



SKETCH OK OF ST. LOUIS. 181 

thousand four hundred in each mile, firmly bedded on broken 
stone and g avel ballast. 

The stations and other buildings of. the company are excel- 
lent and very convenient for the purposes intended. The pas- 
senger and freight stations at St. Louis are located immediately 
in the heart of the city, upon a magnificent plat of ground ex- 
tending from Seventh to Twelfth street, and between Poplar and 
Cerre. The freight house will contain quite a large amount of 
freight, is very easy of access, and but a short distance from the 
levee and business portions of the city. At Fourteenth street 
there is also a large and commodious freight house, with exten- 
sive platforms for the loading and unloading of goods. At this 
point the trains are all made up, and many hundred feet of 
sidings are upon the ground. 

This company has been exceedingly fortunate in obtaining 
such desirable locations for their city stations, and the advan- 
tage that will result to them from the proximity to. the business 
portion of the city is incalculable. 

Between St. Louis and Jefferson City the company are provi- 
ded with necessary buildings for the passenger and freight bu- 
siness, which, although not expensive, are all that is required 
for the trade of the road. 

About two miles from Seventh street, at the western limits of 
the city, are situated the extensive construction and repair 
shops of the company ; attached to them is a large circular 
engine house, containing stalls for sixteen locomotives. All 
the buildings are of brick, built in the most substantial man- 
ner. The shops are provided with the necessary tools and ma- 
chinery of the best kind for doing the work of the road, and 
the power used is a stationary engine of large size. All of the 
passenger and freight cars of the company are constructed and 
fitted up complete in these shops, and are in every respect 



182 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

equal to those manuPactured at the best establishments of the 
country. 

Since March, 1856, the western terminus of the road has 
been at Jefferson City, where there are very extensive arrange- 
ments for transacting the heavy Missouri river business seeking 
the road. The freight house covers a large area of ground. 
During the past winter extensive additions have been made to 
accommodate the rapidly growing business of the road. 

During the past year a regular line of Packets ran in connec- 
tion with the road, carrying passengers and freight to Weston 
and intermediate points. For the year 1858 arrangements have 
been made for placing a Packet Line upon the river that can 
not be excelled on the western waters. The boats will be first 
class new Missouri river boats, capable of carrying a large 
number of passengers and a great amount of freight. 

The company have just completed arrangements for carrying 
the troops and supplies of the United States destined for the 
army employed on the Western frontier and in Utah. This, 
with the immense travel to Kansas and the upper Missouri, will 
largly increase the receipts of the company, now greatly beyond 
the most sanguine expectations of the friends of. the road. 

During the past year the earnings of the road amounted to $663,335 00 

Expenses of working the road • 352,272 00 

Nett earnings $311,063 00 

Being about 47 per cent, of the total earnings, or $2488 per mile. 
Of this amount there was derived from through freight and pas- 
sengers carried over the whole road $382,401 00 

Way freight^ passengers and mails 280,934 00 

Total as above $663,335 00 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 183 



THE SOUTH-WEST BRANCH. 



The South- West Branch diverges from the main line of the 
Pacific Railroad at the town of Franklin, Franklin county, 
thirty-seven miles from the city of St. Louis, and will terminate 
at the State line, about sixteen miles west of Neosho, Newton 
county, and twenty- five miles north of the Arkansas line. 

The general direction of the road is south-west, and, in its 
length of two hundred and eighty-three miles, traverses the 
counties of Franklin, Crawford, Phelps, Maries, Pulaski, La- 
clede, Webster, Greene, Lawrence, Barry and Newton, Leba- 
non in Laclede, Springfield in Greene, and Neosho in Newton, 
are upon the line of the road ; Union of Franklin, Steelsville 
of Crawford, Waynesville of Pulaski, and Mt. Vernon of Law- 
rence, are within ten miles of the road. 

From Franklin, the road for the first twenty miles passes 
over very broken ground, and the work is quite heavy, a great 
deal of rock work, and very extensive embankments across the 
Meramec and Calvey valleys and on Section No. 7. The 
Meramec river is crossed twice by bridges of five hundred and 
twenty-eight and three hundred and seventy feet in length. 

At the end of the twenty miles, the line reaches the Meramec 
and Bourbeuse divide, which it follows with moderate work for 
sixty miles, to Webbers ; from this the descent to the Gas- 
conade commences, and the river is reached in thirteen miles, 
at the mouth of the Little Piney, ninety miles from Franklin. 
For the next fifty miles, to the town of Lebanon, the work is 
exceedingly heavy, encountering the breaks of the Gasconade 
river, in Pulaski county, and crossing the Big Piney, Robidoux, 
Gasconade and Osage Fork rivers, and with two tunnels of an 
aggregate length of one thousand four hundred and fifty feet. 

At Lebanon, the rich prairie country of South- West Missouri 



184 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

is reached, and is crossed by the line to its contemplated termi- 
nus, in Newton county, with very moderate work. The align- 
ment of the whole road is good, with maximum gradients of 
sixty- five feet per mile. 

LAND GRANT. 

By an act of Congress, approved June 10th, 1852, a grant 
of land was made to the State of Missouri to aid in the construc- 
tion of a Railroad from St. Louis to the western boundary of 
the State. 

By an act of the General Assembly of! Missouri, approved 
December 25th, 1852, the land so granted to the State was 
transferred to the Pacific Railroad Company for the construc- 
tion of a branch terminating at the State line south of the 
Osage river. 

This branch was located in 1853, and the land selected along 
the line of road ; the selections were approved by the Land 
Department, and a certified list made out, which it is now 
decided rests the fee simple title in the company. This land 
grant of one million and forty thousand acres is assigned to 
the South- West Branch, to be applied to the construction of the 
road, and was selected before the lands were so much sought 
after in this part of the State, being located in a magnificent 
country, rich in mineral and well adapted to every variety of 
agriculture. The lands are now worth from eight to ten mil- 
lions of dollars, and with the branch road completed will be 
worth, at least, fifteen millions of dollars. 

The lands embrace extensive bodies of rich minerals on the 
waters of the Meramec, interspersed with fine agricultural 
tracts, the minerals consisting of lead, copper and iron ; also 
valuable timber lands along the Gasconade, consisting of oak, 
walnut and yellow pine. Beyond the Gasconade, and one hun- 



SKETCn BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 185 

dred and forty miles from Franklin, the road strikes the beau- 
tiful prairie country of the South-West, which expands and 
improves in beauty and interest on to the end of the road. 

This country (the South-West) maybe designated as a vast 
table land, forming the divide between the small streams run- 
ning into White River and the Arkansas on the south, and the 
Osage on the north, and is as large as the State of Massachu- 
setts, well watered with fine bold springs and good mill streams, 
never obstructed by ice ; there is an abundance of timber 
along the streams, and the uplands are rich prairie. About 
seven hundred thousand acres of the company's land are located 
in this fine country, and all within fifteen miles of the line 
of road. 

Lands along the line, near Springfield and beyond that point, 
with some small improvements, are now selling at from fifteen 
to twenty-five dollars per acre. 

The most valuable lands owned by the company are situated 
in Newton, Jasper and Barry counties, in the great lead region. 
The mineral discoveries on the lands of the company are very 
remarkable for their richness and value. Geologists consider 
them superior to any mines in the West, and their value can not 
be fully estimated. On one half section belonging to the com- 
pany they are now taking out seventy- five thousand pounds of 
mineral per day ; this will be very largely increased during the 
present year, the parties to whom the land has been leased hav- 
ing erected extensive smelting furnaces, the want of which has 
greatly retarded the working of the rich mineral lands of this 
region. 

The State Geologist (Prof. Swallow) estimates the lead 
region as embracing about four hundred square miles. The 
Pacific Railroad Company own about forty per cent, of this 
territory, and so far the richest discoveries made are on the 



186 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

company's land. The greatest drawback there is on the value 
of these lands is the great distance from market without the 
facilities for transportation ; the building of this road will 
remove this obstacle. 

In conformity to the law of December 10th, 1855, the Paci : 
fie Railroad has executed a mortgage upon the Branch Road, 
and one million of acres of land to secure the payment of ten 
millions, seven per cent., first mortgage bonds, these bonds hav- 
ing twenty years to run from January 1st, 1856. By the same 
law referred to, it was provided that the State should guaran- 
ty three millions of the bonds, and by law approved March 3d, 
185T, the guaranty extends to four and a half millions of the 
bonds, which bonds may be first used in the construction of the 
Branch road. 

In the guaranty made by the State, the form of which is 
given in the law, the State assumes the payment of the bonds, 
making it the undertaking of the State as fully as if they were the 
bonds of the State ; and in providing for the protection of the 
State credit, by the creation of an interest and sinking fund, 
provision is made for paying the interest on these bonds if the 
company fails to pay. 

The company have a stock subscription, amounting to 
$356,000, made along the line of road, conditioned that it shall 
be expended on the Branch road. The road is under contract, 
to be completed for $7,621,000. 

To this time, some $637,413 have been expended upon the 
road. Twenty miles of graduation are nearly ready for the 
track ; the iron rails are in St. Louis, and by the 4th of July 
the road will be opened to Mosely's. Beyond this point the 
work is comparatively light for the next sixty miles, and it must 
be but a short time until the South- West Branch will be opened 
one hundred and twenty miles south-west of St. Louis. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 187 

To give a history of the Pacific Railroad from its conception 
until the present time, a period of nine years, would require 
more space than can be allotted to it in this book. Sufficient 
to say that it has struggled manfully through all the troubles 
of the intervening years, and is now in as good condition as 
any road in the country. The difficult sections of the main 
line have been passed, and there remains but one hundred and 
fifteen miles of graduation to the State line ; this through a 
country unparalleled for richness, and more thickly populated 
than any portion of the State, except that immediately on the 
two great rivers — the Mississippi and the Missouri. 

The Pacific Road, when opened to the western boundary of 
the State, will become the great highway between St. Louis 
and the fertile plains of Kansas, now rapidly filling up with 
an intelligent and industrious people, and through Kansas to 
the boundless West. 

To. attempt to estimate the business of the road, when this 
desirable end is accomplished, would be impossible. Even now 
the receipts of the road, passing, as it does, through the rough- 
est part of the State, on the bank of the Missouri river to Jef- 
ferson City, exceed all estimates. 

The friends of the road must congratulate themselves upon 
its bright prospects in the future. There can be no doubt 
that it will be a paying road ; the return has been tardy, but 
when the goal is reached the fruition of their hopes will be 
complete. 

The South-west Branch of this road is rapidly growing in 
favor. To this time few but those directly interested, either 
as residents on the line or officers of the company, appreciate 
the importance of this great work. To the city of St. Louis 
and to the State of Missouri it will be of incalculable advan- 
tage by opening in our own State a boundless mineral wealth 



188 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

of iron, copper and lead, and inviting to the rich and fertile 
prairies of South-west Missouri an enterprising and hardy- 
population, who will send daily the returns of that garden- spot 
to enrich our beautiful city. 

Nor will this be a local road of Missouri only ; it will inevi- 
tably become one of the outlets of the great through line to 
the Pacific. 

The question of the construction of the Great Pacific Rail- 
road was agitated first some twelve years since. Since 1853 
only has the question been seriously considered. In that year 
Congress authorized the surveys of the various lines proposed ; 
the results have been published by the Government in eight 
large quarto volumes ; five volumes have been distributed 
and are now before us. From these it is manifest that the soil, 
climate, population and topography point out the route of the 
35th parallel as the proper one to be adopted, with which the 
South-West Branch can be readily connected in the valley of 
the Canadian. Can there be a doubt of the ultimate use of the 
South-west Branch, since over it will pass the immense trade 
and travel between the great northern and middle States of this 
confederacy and our possessions on the Pacific. Upon the 
banks of the Mississippi, in the city of St. Louis, will hereafter 
be transacted a business that would appear visionary now to 
anticipate. The agricultural and mineral productions of the 
great West, the shining product of California, and the wealth 
of the Indies, will pass through the limits of this great city, 
which is destined to be the agricultural and commercial metrop- 
olis, as it now is the geographical centre, of this glorious 
Union. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 



189 



CHAPTER XVI. 




STEAM PACKET LINES. 



ST. LOUIS AND ST. JOSEPH UNION PACKET LINE. 



Capt. T. H. Bpuerly, President. 

The immense amount of travel upon the Missouri river has 
induced a number of. our most enterprising steamboat men to 
enter into arrangements by which they can afford ample accom- 
modations to all who design to visit the Territories of Kansas, 
Nebraska and Utah. The universal interest that is manifested 
in all portions of the country by our fellow- citizens in regard 
to these Territories, and more especially Kansas, has caused 
thousands to determine to emigrate thither in order to build 
for themselves a home where, when old age creeps on, they can 
rest from the toils and cares of busy life. Ever since the ex- 
odus to Kansas began, the greatest difficulty experienced by the 
emigrant was that of obtaining a speedy and comfortable 



190 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

transit up the Missouri river ; antl, although a good line of 
packets were engaged upon this route last year, and made their 
trips in connection with the arrival of the cars by the Pacific 
Railroad at Jefferson City, they were found to be unequal to 
the task of affording accommodation to the immense number 
of travellers who were constantly seeking passage upon their 
boats. Any one that made this trip last year can well remem- 
ber the difficulties they experienced ; not on account of the offi- 
cers of the different boats, for they did all that could be done 
to render comfortable those entrusted to their care, but on ac- 
count of the insufficient capacity of the boats engaged in the 
trade. These difficulties, doubtless, deterred many from un- 
dertaking the trip which they loDged to accomplish, and which 
they will make this season, now that proper accommodations 
have been furnished. 

Knowing the wants of the travelling community as well as 
the re uirements of the shipping interests, a number of the 
most enterprising steamboat men engaged upon our rivers deter- 
mined to form a company for the purpose of running their boats 
in such a manner as to meet the demands of all classes of the 
community. In order to perfect the arrangements, they formed 
themselves into a company under the style of " St. Louis and 
St. Joseph Union Packet Line," i nd have succeeded in obtain- 
ing twelve first class boats. These boats will make d ily trips 
between St. Louis and St. Joseph, touching at all intermedi- 
ate points on the Missouri river. One of these steamers will 
leave St. Louis and another St. Joseph every day, and will be 
allowed such time to ma :e the trip as to render a failure to de- 
part at the hour advertised impossible. They intend to pay 
particular attention to way bus ness, an ! will leave no endea- 
vors untried to merit from th • public a large share of the pa- 
tronage. They also design making connections with the cars 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 191 

at Jefferson City, both ways, thereby affording to the patrons 

of the Pacific Railroad a superior class of Passenger Steamers. 

The following is a list of the Boats engaged in this Line : 

Peerless Capt. Sissell. 

Morning Star " Burke. 

Silver Heels " Barron. 

A. B. Chambers * Gillhain. 

D. A. January " P. Yore. 

Minnehaha u C.Baker. 

Twilight '• J. Shaw. 

Hesperin " F. B. Kercheval. 

South- Wester " D. Haven. 

Ben Lewis • " Brierly. 

Sovereign " Hutchinson. 

Kate Howard u Joseph Nanson. 

To any one who has had the least experience in Western 
travel, we need not say a word in regard to these boats or the 
gentlemen in charge of them, for they are well enough known ; 
but lest some one who is unacquainted with steamboat matters 
should fall upon these pages, we will say that every single boat 
is emphatically a " Floating Palace," containing every thing 
requisite to render a trip up the Missouri river upon one of 
them as delightful as could be wished. The commanders are 
old and experienced Missouri river steamboat men, and when 
we say this we need say no more, for the steamboat men are 
proverbial for kindness of heart and courteousness of disposi- 
tion. The offices are in charge of gentlemen who exert every 
endeavor to render their boat a favorite. The pilots are skillful 
and experienced, and " know the river like a book." The en- 
gineers are competent and careful men, and ever upon the watch 
to guard against accidents. The table is under the charge of a 
skillful set of stewards, who devote particular attention to fur- 
nishing every thing the market affords. 



192 skis rem r.uoii of bit. lot is. 

We would recommend those persons who design taking a trip 
up the Missouri river to secure state rooms upon some packet 
connected with the Union Line if they wish to enjoy themselves. 



ST. LOUIS AND KEOKUK PACKET COMPANY. 
J. S. McCune, President. 

There is not in the annals of steamboating in the West a 
more striking instance of success and prosperity, which always 
attends labor and enterprise, than the history of the Keokuk 
Packet Company, a sketch of which it is our purpose to lay be- 
fore our readers. In arranging and publishing the following 
facts, which we have taken some pains to collect, we are doing 
a simple act of justice to a company composed of practical bu- 
siness men ; and their example may serve as a light to others, 
in fields of the same character, which are opening in the great 
West. Steamboating in the West, extensively as it is carried 
on at present, is yet comparatively in its infancy. There are 
many sections and localities on the Upper Mississippi and Mis- 
souri rivers, the resources of which are rapidly being developed. 
These will before many years demand a large amount of capi- 
tal to conduct their s.everal local steamboating interests ; men 
and money will be found to meet these demands ; boats will 
be built ; the business will be done ; and those individuals who 
can judge most correctly of the future, by the past, will be the 
operators in these yet unborn enterprises. 

The company felt an interest in making St. Louis a boat- 
building point, and accordingly placed their business in the 
hands of our own mechanics, in preference to giving it to 
those of the Ohio river, even at a less first cost. This evinced 



SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 193 

a true and generous spirit toward our artizans, and it has not 
been without its rewards, as will be seen. 

For a period of about twelve years, one daily line between 
St. Louis and Keokuk was sufficient to do the business, but it 
was found necessary in the year 1856 to establish two lines of 
packets — one line between St. Louis and Keokuk, and the 
other between St. Louis and Quincy — the latter line connecting 
with one of the company's boats through to Keokuk. 

The present year has witnessed another change. There are 
now six regular steamers, forming two lines. One freight and 
passenger line between St. Louis and Quincy, and one mail and 
passenger line between St. Louis and Keokuk. 

The following boats are now engaged in this trade. They 
are all first class boats and are managed by a competent and 
courteous corps of officers, who spare no pains to render their 
guests as comfortable as possible. The tables are served by 
competent stewards, who obtain a portion of every thiDg the 
market affords to please the taste, and have been pronounced 
by epicures to be perfect in every respect. The fact that «feis 
line have now been in operation for sixteen years and not a sin- 
gle accident causing loss of life having occurred, speaks vol- 
umes for the capacity and carefulness of the engineers. The 
boats are — City of Louisiana, Hannibal City, Jeannie Deans, 
Quincy, Keokuk, Desmoines and Warsaw, commanded by Cap- 
tains R. Ford, Jas. H. Johnson, S. S. Matson, Jno. W. Ma- 
lin, E. A. Sheble and S. D. Bradley. 

It has become proverbial with consignees that the packets 
can not fail to deliver their goods promptly and in good or- 
der, and they say to shippers, "If you ship on a Keokuk 
packet don't insure my goods, as I have never lost a dollar 
there yet." 

The stock of this concern, which now amounts to $400,000, 
9 



194 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

is not confined to a few individuals, as is the case with some 
other extensive packet companies in the West, but is remarka- 
bly well distributed among the shippers themselves. About 
one- sixth of the stock is owned by the shippers of Keokuk; 
one- sixth by the shippers of Quincy, and one -sixth is owned 
by heavy shippers at Alexandria, Canton, Lagrange, Hannibal, 
Louisiana, Clarksville, and all other points on the line. The 
remaining half is owned in St. Louis. This shows a remarka- 
bly equal distribution of stock among the individuals most in- 
terested — the shippers. 

We know of no route more favorable for reaching the Upper 
Mississippi than this, and we would advise all travellers and 
shippers who desire to reach any point above St. Louis to call 
at No. 34 Commercial street and secure tickets or make con- 
tracts. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 



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196 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 



CHAPTER XVII. 
BARNUM'S HOTEL. 

Barnum &■ Fogg, Proprietors. 

This hotel, unsurpassed by any in the West, and its internal 
arrangements, perhaps, having no equal in the Union, was 
built for and under the personal supervision of Theron Bar- 
num, Esq., a gentleman who, for nearly twenty years, has 
occupied an enviable position as a hotel keeper of our city — 
his name and the excellence of his house being co-extensive with 
our entire country, both east and west. 

Mr. Barnum became the proprietor of the City Hotel, corner 
of Third and Vine streets, in the spring of 1848, which house 
he occupied until the fall of 1852, when, having accumulated 
a sufficiency of this world's goods, he retired from business alto- 
gether. It is needless to say that this retirement was much 
regretted by the community in which he lived, (as well as by the 
travelling public,) feeling as they did that he was one of 
those who reflected credit upon our city by the manner in which 
he had conducted his house, making it emphatically a home for 
the traveller and a spot where the weary were at rest. 

It is not a matter of surprise then that he should be called 
forth from that retirement which he so eagerly sought. The 
rapid growth of our city called most loudly for an increase of 
our hotel accommodation, and it was determined to erect a 
hotel commensurate to the demand. The corner of Second and 
Walnut streets was selected as the most eligible site, being near 
Wkhe centre of business and the principal railroad depots and 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 197 

steamboat landings, yet sufficiently retired to ensure quiet and 
comfort to the guests ; Mr. Barnum was solicited to take 
charge of the new edifice as soon as completed, and he, after 
much solicitation, consented. 

On the 28th of September, 1851, Mr.^Barnum, in conjunc- 
tion with Mr. Fogg, opened the above named House. Since 
its opening it has enjoyed a most complete success, both in the 
number of its patrons and the satisfaction which it has ren- 
dered them. The number of arrivals at this house, as shown 
by the published hotel arrivals, is much greater than at any 
other, while in point of excellence of table, comfort of apart- 
ments, the attention shown guests by every one connected with 
the establishment, from " mine hosts" down to the lowest 
menial, we can safely say is unequalled either at home or 
abroad. 

It is an honor and a just subject of pride to our city. Here 
the stranger can look for that kind welcome and gentlemanly 
treatment which render absence from home less irksome and 
dreary, feeling that everything reasonable is done to render his 
stay at once comfortable and pleasant. May the shadow of its 
proprietors never grow less, and may their success in life be 
equalled by their exertions to deserve it, is the ardent wish of 
all who have enjoyed the excellent brands, many comforts and 
benign smiles of the proprietors of Barnum's Hotel. 

Under the guidance of Mr. Fogg, we, a short time since, took 
a survey of the working portion of this house. We went with- 
out previous appointment, with the intention of taking them 
by surprise. We found Mr. Fogg in the office, and communi- 
cated our desire to him. He immediately conducted us through 
the gentlemen's ordinary, which is of ample dimensions, and 
capable of seating four hundred guests. The ladies' ordinary is 
not so large, but can seat about two hundred and fifty persons. 



198 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

Attached to the meat stand in the dining room is one of the 
neatest contrivances for keeping the meats warm we have ever 
observed. It consists of a couple of hollow, cast iron plates, 
with indentures sufficiently large to receive the bottom of the dish ; 
the meats are then dished up and placed upon this stand, and 
the steam, which is generated by a boiler in the cellar, turned 
on ; it immediately fills the vacuum, traverses the range, and is 
conducted off by a pipe upon the opposite end. After satisfy- 
ing ourselves of the great utility of this contrivance, and hav- 
ing investigated the workings of the dumb waiter, which leads 
to the pastry room below, we passed into the cook house. We 
were not a little astonished at the extent and neatness of this 
apartment. We observed many things here which are to be 
found nowhere else, as they were designed by Mr. Fogg, and 
erected by his positive orders, and upon his own responsibility, 
as the mechanics refused to construct them until he had declared 
himself determined to have them at all events. From here, we 
passed into the engine room, where we found a huge boiler 
generating steam, and a neat, compact steam engine at work 
supplying power for various uses. These works were also 
erected upon the responsibility of Mr. Fogg, who spent many 
hours of hard study in arranging them to suit his ideas of 
what was required. On leaving this apartment, we visited the 
wash room, and found it the most complete and beat arranged 
of all the many we have inspected in the United States. The 
dirty clothes are received at one end of the room and are 
immediately handed to the washer ; from her hands they are 
passed into the rinser, and from thence into a machine designed 
for wringing. They are removed from this machine into a dry- 
ing rack, and shoved into a room filled with hot air, from whence 
they are withdrawn and passed to the ironer ; after they have 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 199 

been ironed they are placed in the airing room and from thence 
handed to the laundress, who takes charge of them, and places 
them in her receiving room until they are called for by the mes- 
senger boy. The water is heated by steam, the clothes boiled 
by steam and the drying room heated by steam. 

On entering into the pastry room, we observed the same scru- 
pulous regard to cleanliness and order which is every where dis- 
played. On ascending from tho pastry room, we were con- 
ducted into the store room ; here we observed a greater variety 
and a larger quantity of groceries than are usually found in 
retail grocery stores. 

After visiting the servants' pleasure room, which is a room of 
50 by 26 feet, and where they congregate after their work i s 
finished and engage in dancing and love making until ten o'clock, 
we passed into the upper portion of the house. 

We found the sleeping apartments furnished with the utmost 
care and kept with scrupulous cleanliness. Here one can obtain 
a good night's rest without being tortured by those pests which 
are to be found in so many hotels in this country ; upon these 
vermin the housekeeper has waged a successful war of extermi- 
nation. Each room is furnished with everything necessary for 
the making of the toilet. 

In conclusion we must be permitted to say a few words in 
regard to the bathrooms. These rooms are fitted up in elegant 
Btyle, with all the modern improvements for furnishing hot, 
cold or tepid baths. Attached to the bath room is the room for 
blacking boots. While a gentleman is enjoying the luxury of a 
good bath, a boy is cleaning his boots. This apartment was 
also arranged and designed by Mr. Fogg, who has proved an 
invaluable associate in the management of Barnum's Hotel. 



200 SKETCn BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 



MONROE HOUSE, 

Comer of Second and Olive streets. 
William Morroe, Proprietor. 

It is a pleasure as well as a duty to point out to both our 
citizens and to strangers such Hotels in our midst as are most 
worthy the confidence and patronage of the public. Such a 
house is eminently the Monroe. For years known as the Glas- 
gow House, and situated in the immediate centre of business, 
% has ever enjoyed a most liberal share of patronage. 

In the year 1846 the house passed into the charge of Mr. 
Wm. Monroe, formerly of the Quincy House, where he had es- 
tablished for himself a most enviable reputation as a host and 
a gentleman. Since then it has been under his entire control, 
and has assumed a first position in the rank of hotels in our 
city. So rapidly did the business of the house increase under 
the. excellent management of its present proprietor, that large 
additions became necessary, and were therefore made — the 
"building now occupying one-fourth of the entire square upon 
which it is situated. This enlargement worked a complete 
change in the original plan of the house ; the rooms being en- 
larged, the parlors and sitting rooms made more spacious, and 
the dining room made the most extensive of any in our city — 
while its arrangements in the manner of seating boarders is per- 
haps the most superior of any in our city. While all this was 
done, the charges were as reasonable as those of any hotel in 
the country, and the fare excelled by none. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 201 

Here the epicure can find every thing to suit the most fasti- 
dious and delicate palate, served up in a style worthy of the 
highest art of Parisian cookery, and by servants who seem in- 
tuitively to know your wants, and knowing them, most glad to 
cater thereto. This is no idle panegyric, meant only for the 
public gaze, but an honest sober truth, which any one may de- 
monstrate by paying the house a visit. 

Hotel keeping, in a proper sense, is a science. It requires 
a knowledge of human nature, and a disposition to bear pa- 
tiently with the foibles of all with whom the hotel keeper may 
come in contact. "The proud man's contumely," the inso- 
lence of the rich, the overweening vanity of the coxcomb and 
new-fledged aristocrat, the peevishness of the invalid, the child- 
ishness of the old, the boorish manners of the " border ruffian," 
and many other evils " too numerous to mention," are trials to 
which " mine host" is daily doomed to bear, and which require 
a most liberal amount of moral courage to endure. If not met 
in the proper manner and with that becoming suavity which be- 
token the perfect gentleman, he is gazetted from one end of the 
country to the other as unfit for the avocation of a public cater- 
er, and his house avoided by those who have one or another of 
the faults above mentioned. 

But Mr. Monroe is a perfect gentleman, and meets with most 
gracious courtesy and forbearance those inconveniences which 
the keeping of a public house ever brings to its keeper. With 
him the keeping of a hotel is not a mere affair oE dollars and 
cents, but a position in which he seeks to dispense a " quid pro 
quo" for the amount received from his guests. He does not 
feel satisfied with merely giving his patrons a place whereon 
they may sleep, and a seat at the table where they may gorge 
themselves to their heart's desire, but believes that there is 
something beyond all this — a looking after the comfort and en- 
joyment of those by whom he is surrounded, rendering them all 
9* 



202 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LODIS. 

those little attentions which go so far in making up the sum to- 
tal of: life's happiness — the comfort of his guests being his first 
thought, the accumulation of money merely a secondary consid- 
eration. 

In all his efforts he is most ably seconded by Mr. Andrews, 
clerk ; Mr. Johnson, assistant do. ; and Mr. Allen, steward ; 
while the ladies always find an attentive friend in Miss Monroe, 
general housekeeper. 

All the accommodations and conveniences to be found at any 
house can be found here, and to the pufblic we commend, with 
most sincere wishes for its success, the Monroe House. 

Ere we conclude our notice of this elegant Hotel, we must be 
allowed to visit the sleeping apartments, a portion of all hotels 
that demands and receives from the wayfarer a greater amount 
of criticism than any other. In the Monroe House we do not 
find the rooms crowded with beds, in order that a great number 
may be furnished with a place to sleep, and the purse of the 
landlord benefitted for the time being ; but on the contrary, we 
find the rooms large, airy, and neatly arranged. The bed 
Sothes are of snowy whiteness, and with the splendid spring 
mattresses, combine to render the appearance inviting ; here 
elne can sink to rest amid dreams of home, the halcyon days of 
boyhood, the loved wife and lfttle ones, and in the morning 
awake refreshed and ready to go forth to meet the cares of 
Snother day with renewed energy, and an enlarged opinion of 
humanity. 



SKETCn BOOK OP ST. LOUTS. 



203 



VIRGINIA HOTEL 




§iii§ 

wholesale: 

iiii 

CLOTHING 

iiii 



T| jjj^ii iiiium mn m \tiftp&£&£0. i' ill! 

- i liMASBiaajtsOi" 




Joh.v H. Sparr, Proprietor 

A good hotel — one which combines all the luxuries and con- 
veniences of a home — is a thing most ardently desired by all 
who labor under the necessity of travelling, or who, like the 
writer, is unable to enjoy the comforts of a home, because of the 
want of the first indispensable article — a wife — and is conse- 
quently compelled to seek inside the hospitable doors of a hotel 
that ease and comfort he can only dream of elsewhere. The 
reader will find all these requirements in the Virginia Hotel of 
St. Louis, which is situated on the corner of Green, Main and 
Second streets. 

The site at present occupied by the buildings known as the 
Virginia Hotel, was first improved by Messrs. Scott & Rule, 



204 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

well known merchants of this city, in the year 1830, and was 
used as the Union Hotel by Mr. Farish until his decease, and 
then by his widow until 1843, when its present owner, Capt. 
Jame3 Wood, became the proprietor, and made numerous addi- 
tions and improvements to the buildings ; and on the first of 
January, 1844, Mr. John H. Sparr, the present worthy host, 
became the lessee and entered upon its duties as manager. 

Mr. Sparr came to St. Louis when quite a boy in 1828, and 
after a variety of changes in vocations, in which he was more or 
less successful, he, on the first of April, 1840, entered upon the 
life of a hotel keeper. The scene of his first operations was a 
small house on the corner of Washington avenue and Commer- 
cial street. In October of that year he became lessee of what 
was at that time called the Virginia Hotel, but is now known to 
the travelling community as " King s Hotel," and which is 
situated on the corner of Vine and Second streets. In 1844, 
as we have before stated, he became the lessee of the hotel 
owned by Capt. Wood, and in moving into it he carried with 
him the name of "Virginia Hotel," it being one he had seen 
grow into public favor under his fostering care. 

The Virginia Hotel, when Mr. Sparr took possession of it in 
1844, was capable of rendering accommodations to about one 
hundred and seventy- five guests, and was as large as any house 
in the Mound City. It answered the purpose for but a short 
time ; the immense reputation achieved by this house had gone 
abroad, and many who visited St. Louis could not be accom- 
modated. In order to meet the increasing wants of the public 
in a proper spirit, Mr. Isaac Walker, in 1846, succeeded in ob- 
taining a lease on an adjoining lot, and built a four story ad- 
dition, which when completed he leased to Mr. Sparr, and 
which added much to the facilities of the Virginia Hotel in 
rendering their guests comfortable. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 205 

In 1851 Capt. Wood built the western wing, having first 
made a contract with Mr. Sparr, whereby the latter was to yield 
his lease on the main hotel, with a view of pulling it down and 
rebuilding in a more spacious and elegant style. The result of 
the negotiation was the removal of Mr. Sparr, the demolition 
of the old house, and the erection of the present magnificent 
and spacious building, which was completed early in the spring 
of 1853, and was opened to the public on the first day of 
April, 1853, just thirteen years from the day which first saw 
Mr. Sparr at the head of a hotel, but with far different pros- 
pects ; the first was an experiment, where he was to strive to 
win a name and honored reputation ; the second, after both 
had been achieved, and after the fame of the Virginia Hotel 
had become a household word from the coast of Maine to the 
shores of California. 

Mr. Sparr has now ample accommodations in his spacious 
hotel for three hundred and fifty guests, and he has upon ex- 
traordinary occasions found room for four hundred. 

The immense amount it costs to conduct it in a proper style 
would startle those unacquainted with what is required in our 
first class houses. There are no less than one hundred and 
twenty-five servants, of both sexes, employed, and the other 
departments are upon an equal scale of grandeur. 

The location being on Main street, near the centre of the 
wholesale trade, special attention has been paid to the arrange- 
ments and style of keeping, in order to make the house a com- 
fortable house to business men who visit the city a number of 
times each year, and all will concede the fact that the table of 
the Virginia Hotel is always provided with the best the market 
affords. 

One thing in particular we desire to mention here, and that 
is, the neatness and cleanliness which is observed in all the 



206 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

sleeping apartments. This attention upon the part of Mr. 
Sparr has had much to do in placing his house in the position 
it now holds in the estimation of the public, and when con- 
trasted with the way in which hotels are generally kept, reflects 
much honor upon that gentleman. 

The building fronts on Main street one hundred feet, and is 
six stories high, and extends back to the alley. The front on 
Green street is three hundred and twenty feet, while on Second 
street, upon which it also fronts, it is eighty feet. This build- 
ing, or perhaps we had better say these buildings, are owned 
by Mr. Isaac Walker, Capt. James Wood, and Messrs. J. & 
W. Finney, and is held under a lease from these gentlemen by 
Mr. Sparr. 

Mr. Sparr has spent over fifteen thousand dollars in improv- 
ing the adjoining buildings, in order that he would be better 
able to render his guests perfectly comfortable, and furnish 
them with suitable accommodations. But he has the proud con- 
sciousness of knowing that he established a world-wide repu- 
tation for his house and insured a full return. 

There is no hotel in our city more popular with the traveller 
than the Virginia, and if we take the published list of daily 
arrivals as a criterion, we can safely say not one is better pa- 
tronised. 

The kind and obliging disposition of Mr. Sparr and his ac- 
complished assistants in his office, render them especial favor- 
ites with all who have ever stopped at this house. 



SKETCH BOOK OJ ST. LOUTS. 



207 



KING'S HOTEL, 

Comer of Second and Vine Streets, 




Geobge I. King, Proprietor. 

This favorite hotel is situated on the north-east corner of 
Vine and Second streets, having a front on Vine street of one 
hundred and fifty feet, with a depth of one hundred and forty 
feet on Second street. The buildings are of brick, five stories 
high, and admirably arranged for the purposes for which it was 
erected. The dining rooms having a capacity for seating in 
comfortable style about three hundred guests. The parlors 
are large and furnished in superior style with every appliance 
that can in any way conduce to the comfort of the guests. 

This house has been used as a hotel for several years, and 
has always maintained an excellent reputation for excellence. 
A few years ago, when it was called the Virginia, it was known 



208 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

all over the West as a first-class hotel, and, although the name 
has been altered, the admirable management of Mr. King has 
rather added to than detracted from the reputation it then sus- 
tained. The location is one of the most favorable that could 
be found ; contiguous to the wholesale jobbing houses, it offers 
rare advantages to the country merchant who visits the city for 
the purpose of replenishing his stock. 

The sleeping apartments of King's Hotel are large, airy, and 
kept with scrupulous cleanliness ; furnished with gas and all 
the modern improvements. It is really a god-send for the 
wearied traveller to rest his wearied limbs upon these luxurious 
beds. 

The table is under the charge of Mr. Frank W. Denman, the 
accomplished Steward, and if the market contains any thing 
rare, excellent, or good, he is determined to have it for his 
guests. With his larder well stocked, and the services of sev- 
eral superior cooks, no one can furnish a more delightful meal 
than Mr. D. 

As the name of the house would lead one to suppose, King's 
Hotel is presided over, and its destinies ruled, by Geo. I. King, 
who is a favorite with those who have partaken of his hospitality. 
Mr. King has long been a resident of the West, having for a 
number of years been connected with the steamboating inter- 
ests, and while thus engaged he wove those bonds of friendship 
with the river men which now makes his house such a favorite 
resort with all steamboat men who frequent St. Louis. 

Mr. George I, King first introduced himself to the St. Louis 
public as a host in 1851, at which time we find him at the head 
of the Missouri Hotel ; here he won golden opinions from all 
sorts of people, by the manner in which he catered for the pub- 
lic. He flourished in the Missouri till 1854, when the American 
House was for lease ; he immediately obtained a lease upon 
that establishment, and had it refitted and thoroughly cleaned, 



SKETCn BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 209 

and christened " King's Hotel." He opened to the public with 
a thorough knowledge of what was required to secure an equal 
share of public patronage, and a firm determination to let no 
obstacles stand between him and the consummation of his wishes. 
The result has fully equalled his expectations, and he has a 
full house of contented and pleased guests at all times. 

In all his endeavors to please the public, Mr. King is ably 
assisted by his Lieutenant in the office, Mr. Charles King, who 
is a favorite with all who tarry at King's. The larder, as we 
have already stated, is under the entire control of Frank Den- 
man, who has an enviable reputation as a caterer, and who is 
always "bobbing around" in search of viands rare and luscious 
with which to grace his table and satiate the cravings of his 
guests. He is a trump, and has added no little towards giving 
a wide reputation to this hotel. The charges at this house have 
always been moderate, and the accommodations such that no one 
ever thinks he has not received full value. We look upon 
King's as an " institution " which deserves to flourish, and which 
will, so long as courteous and gentlemanly treatment, good liv- 
ing, excellent accommodations, and liberal charges, have any 
influence. 

The utmost regard is paid to keeping every thing in order ; 
no boisterous noises arouse the slumberer, or disturb the still- 
ness of the house ; every thing seems as quiet and orderly as a 
church. Meals can be procured at all hours, and the servants 
take pride in attending to the wants of all guests. A cup of 
good hot coffee is ever ready for the traveller, which can be had 
at a moment's notice. This, to railroad passengers, is no small 
consideration. 



210 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 



JONES' EXCHANGE HOTEL. 

77 Dock Street, Philadelphia, Penn. 
Lawrence H. Thompson, Proprietor. 

This house has for a long series of years enjoyed the reputa- 
tion of being one of the best hotels in the city of Philadelphia, 
and while under the management of Col. R. B. Jones won the 
confidence of the travelling public. In all his endeavors to 
render his house a favorite resort, Col. Jones was ably assisted 
by Larry Thompson, who, after the Col's, death, assumed the 
entire control of affairs. 

This house is conducted upon the European plan, a system 
that has grown into extensive favor where it has been tested. 
Here the traveller can procure rooms by the week or single 
night, with or without board, which, it will be perceived, pos- 
sesses peculiar charms to those who visit Philadelphia upon 
business. These rooms are neatly furnished, and kept with a 
scrupulous regard for cleanliness ; they are fitted with all the 
modern appurtenances which tend to promote the comfort of 
the guests. 

The eating arrangements of this house can not be excelled 
any place. The larder is stocked with every delicacy the market 
affords, and is served up by cooks that are of acknowledged 
elegance. The waiters arc attentive and evince a desire to 
please. The brands of wine embrace every thing that is of 
note, and is dispensed with a liberal hand. A meal can be pro- 
cured at almost any hour ; breakfast, from six o'clock till 
eleven ; dinner, from twelve till four ; supper, from five till 
eleven. Particular attention is given to getting up the dinner, 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 211 

every thing that nature produces, or art suggests, is embraced in 
the bill of fare. Among other delicacies to be found, we will 
mention the Chinqueroarasques Oysters, a brand that has for 
years maintained the position of first favorite with the public. 

Another feature of this excellent hotel, is the supply of ex- 
cellent cigars which are kept for the accommodation of its 
patrons ; these cigars are imported direct from Havana by 
Mr. Thompson, and are luscious beyond comparison. 

To those of our readers who are intending to visit the Quaker 
City, we say — Stop at Jones' Exchange Hotel, 77 Dock street, 
immediately opposite the Exchange, and next door to the Post 
Ofiice. You will find Col. Thompson a gentleman of enlarged 
hospitality, and one you can not help liking ; he will spare no 
pains to make your stay as comfortable and agreeable as pos- 
sible, and will be so moderate in his charges as to cause you to 
wonder how he can afford to conduct_ his house in the style he 
does. 

Indeed, we do not believe the Colonel has his superior in the 
City of Brotherly Love. In all his endeavors to place Jones' 
Exchange Hotel in favor with the travelling community, he has 
been ably assisted by the efforts of his good-looking clerks. 
We speak knowingly of this hotel, for we have more than once 
partaken of its hospitality, and speak thus in its praise because 
we desire to " render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's." 
In the broadest and fullest extent of the word, is Jones' Ex- 
change Hotel a home for all; a place of refuge from the toils 
and cares of life, where you can find those comforts that only 
exist in such hotels as Jones', Barnum's, Monroe's, Sparr's, 
and King's. 



212 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 



CHAPTER XVIII. 
FOUNDRIES. 

MISSISSIPPI FOUNDRY AND IRON WORKS, 

On Main, between Morgan and Cherry Streets. 
Gaty, M'Cune & Co., Proprietors. 

Manufacturers of Steam Engines, Boilers, Sheet Iron 

Work, Mill Machinery, " Child's fy Page's" 

Patent Circular Saw Mills. 

Among the extensive manufacturing establishments of St. 
Louis there is none more deserving of special notice from our 
hands than that of Gaty, M'Cune & Co. These works, occu- 
pying almost an entire square on Main and Morgan, Cherry and 
Second streets, were first established in 1831, by Mr. Samuel 
Gaty, who is still the senior member of the firm. A little, ob- 
scure, out-of-the-way place was the nucleus of the present ex- 
tensive works, where, with five workmen, business was com- 
menced. In 1833, Felix Coonce, Esq., became associated with 
Mr. Samuel Gaty as a partner, under the name and style of 
Gaty & Coonce. In 1836, they admitted into the firm Mr. 
Jacob Beltzhoover, and we find them doing business in the 
name of Gaty, Coonce & Beltzhoover. This connection was 
continued with gratifying success until the spring of 1840, 
when Mr. A. H. Glasby purchased the interest of Mr. Beltz- 
hoover, and the title of the firm changed- to Gaty, Coonce & 
Glasby. In 1841, Mr. John M'Cune, the present President of 
the Keokuk Packet Company, (see pago 183,) succeeded in 



SKETCII BOOK OF 6T. LOUIS. 213 

purchasing the interest of Mr. Felix Coonce, and the title of 
the firm again changed to that of Gaty, M'Cune & Glasby. 
For seven years there was no alteration in this .house ; but at 
the end of that time, in 1848, Girard B. Allen purchased part 
of the interest of Mr. A. II. Glasby, whose health had be- 
come so bad as to render him unable to properly attend to his 
business, which required the greater portion of his time in the 
office ; after Mr. Allen's admission into the firm, the style of 
Gaty, M'Cune & Co. was assumed. In 1849, Mr. James Col- 
lins was admitted as a partner ; Mr. G. B.Allen retired from 
the firm r in 1854, and Mr. Wm. H. Stone and Mr. Amos Howe 
were admitted as members. The firm, as now existing, is 
composed of Mr. Samuel Gaty, J. S. M'Cune, James Collins, 
Wm. H. Stone, and Amos Howe. 

The history of this house shows the advance that has been 
made in manufacturing in the last quarter of a century. The 
mechanical skill which prevailed at that period was imperfect at 
best ; there were no large bodies of men at command, having 
proper and distinct training in each of the trades — more properly, 
the arts — which are embraced in engine building. Much less was 
known of the construction and the use of those wonderful tools 
and engines by which iron and steel are now wrought into every 
geometrical form, and with nearly the same facility as soft and 
yielding wood. 

From the day of its establishment the career of Gaty, 
M'Cune & Co's. "Engine Works and Foundry" has been on- 
ward and upward ; onward in the march of improvement, and 
upward in the estimation of the public. Each month having 
added increased facilities to its internal arrangements, and each 
year to its extent of territory, and now we find the little germ, 
which a quarter of a century ago was planted by Mr. Samuel 
Gaty, grown and developed into gigantic proportions. Where, 



214 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

wenty-five years ago, a half-dozen men, without the extempo- 
raneous aid afforded by machinery, were able to keep pace with 
the demand, we now find over two hundred busily engaged, 
assisted by all the many modern labor- facilitating machines, 
and then barely able to fill all orders. 

Gaty, M'Cune & Co. do not limit their manufactures to the 
production of steam engines, but engage extensively in the 
manufacture of boilers, sheet iron work, and saw and planing 
mill machinery, as well as "Child's & Page's Circular Saw 
Mills," for which they find a large and constantly increasing 
demand. 

As regards the quality of the work turned out by Messrs. 
Gaty, M'Cune & Co., there can be but one opinion, and that of 
commendation. No better evidence of this fact exists than the 
immense success that has attended their efforts, and the position 
they have been able to attain. 

They always turn out work " upon honor," and warrant it to 
be all that it is represented. One advantage possessed by them 
is the fact that all brass and copper work, which in many foun- 
dries and machine shops are purchased from other houses, are 
made on the premises and under the supervision of a master- 
workman. The entire charge of the mechanical department of 
this establishment is under charge of James Collins and Amos 
Howe, a first-rate workman, and a member of the firm, one who 
has much experience, and is every way qualified for the post he 
holds ; indeed, a better corps of mechanics can not be found in 
the West, many of whom have been employed in these works for 
over twenty years. 

Messrs. Gaty, M'Cune & Co. have a capital of over six hun- 
dred thousand dollars invested in their establishment, while the 
amount of raw material consumed would astonish those who are 
not intimately acquainted with the requirements of these im- 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 215 

mense manufactories. As to some of the principal items, we may 
mention four hundred tons of boiler iron, twenty-four hundred 
tons'of pig metal, and a corresponding amount of brass, copper 
and steel. At present the aggregate yearly wages paid to the 
employees of this establishment amounts to about ninety- five 
thousand dollars. Messrs. Gaty, McCune & Co. have, ever 
since their first commencement, been paying their employees 
the best kind of wages. With them the aphorism that " the 
laborer is worthy of his hire," has been recognized in its broad- 
est understanding, and they have ever adopted it as a rule 
worthy of being observed. 

This establishment possesses the most perfect facilities for 
the execution of work of all kinds, and can fill the most volu- 
minous orders in the shortest possible space of time. They 
possess many late improvements in machinery, which are not 
attainable by the greater portion of their cotemporaries, and, 
as a consequence, stand in the front rank of their business in 
the West, offering inducements of an almost irresistible nature 
to those who design making purchases of articles such as they 
are manufacturing. 

St. Louis owes much to such enterprising business men as 
Messrs. Gaty, M'Cune & Co. for the proud position she now 
sustains in the manufacturing cities of the United States, and 
we can not visit this establishment without being astonished at 
the magnitude which it has attained, and would respectfully 
urge upon all persons sojourning in our city, as well as our 
citizens who can devote a few hours from the toils and cares 
of their business to sight seeing, to take a walk through these 
works and view the wondrous machinery which the skill of man 
has caused to be placed there; the inspection of them will richly 
repay the visitor for his time and trouble. 



216 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

FULTON FOUNDRY AND MACHINE SHOP, 

Comer Carr and Second Streets, 
Gerard B. Allen,'? Proprietor. 

Manufacture Steam Engines, Boilers, Sheet Iron Work, 

Mill Machinery, and every variety of Heavy 

Castings, &rc 

The Fulton Iron Works commenced operations in May, 1857, 
under favorable auspices, with a full force of competent work- 
men, in all the various branches of manufactures usually pur- 
sued by works so extensive and general as the Fulton. Girard 
B. Allen, the proprietor of these works, is extensively known 
throughout the south and west, having been a member of the 
firm of Gaty, McCune & Co. for a period of over eight years, 
and having, while connected with that firm, become thoroughly 
conversant with all the minutiae of the trade and the wants of 
the public. 

Having separated himself from the house of Gaty, McCune 
& Co., Mr. Allen determined to establish a foundry and machine 
shop under his own auspices, and see what he could accomplish 
on his own responsibility. He accordingly selected the corner 
of Carr and Second streets as the location best adapted for the 
works he contemplated. The ground being secured, he imme- 
diately set about the erecting of buildings suitable for the ends 
in view, upon plans of his own devising. The buildings erected 
by Mr. Allen are extensive and well arranged, the machine shop 
being one hundred and eighty feet long by forty feet wide, and 
contains a greater amount of machinery than we have ever seen 
in the same space before, and that too without crowding ; it 
fronts on Second street, is of three stories, and perfectly completo 



SKETCH COOK OF ST. LOUIS. 217 

in all its arrangements. The blacksmith shop, having a front 
on Carr street, is one hundred feet by forty, and contains all 
the modern improvements, and keeps in steady employment a 
goodly number of excellent workmen ; the bellows are worked 
by machinery, which derives its motive power from a large steam 
engine which is situated in another portion of the works. 

The foundry is fifty feet wide by one hundred and twenty - 
five, containing many conveniences not possessed by other 
houses. In this room there are two large cranes, with power- 
ful lifting force, for the purpose of handling with ease and safe- 
ty the heavy castings made in the establishment. This depart- 
ment is under the management of Mr. B. Elliot, whose skill and 
experience is unsurpassed in his profession. We have been 
more than once astonished at the coolness of this gentleman 
under circumstances of peculiar danger, and when the slighest evi- 
dence of fear or absence of self-control would have been the sig- 
nal for almost certain destruction. We do not believe that should 
Mr. Allen search the world over he would be able to find a per- 
son better adapted for the position he holds than is Mr. Elliot. 

Adjoining the foundry is the apartment allotted to pattern 
making ; and here again we find every modern invention which 
can in any way serve to facilitate the workmanship. The 
charge of this department is under the control of James W. 
Barry, one of the best mechanics in the Mound City. We had 
the pleasure of examining some of the very beautiful mechani- 
cal drawings executed by this gentleman, who has acquired an 
enviable reputation as a draftsman and designer of machinery, 
in which department he displays originality and skill of a hi^h 
order. We were forcibly struck with several neat and simple 
contrivances which we observed here. One was the arrange- 
ment of fans for the purpose of removing the shavings and 
chips which accumulate as the'work advances towards perfection. 
10 



218 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

Another consisted of a steam heating apparatus for the purpose 
of melting glue. The entire apartment is heated by steam, no 
fire being allowed in this part of the building, thus giving greater 
security against conflagration. 

The boiler shop is not only in construction especially adapted 
to the purpose, but it is also fitted and furnished with each and 
every tool or appliance that can be suggested to expedite and 
perfect this important branch of manufacture — among which 
are shears which clip iron boiler plates half an inch in thickness 
with as much facility as children cut out their paper dolls ; 
heavy punches and drills that make the holes for the rivets 
with the same ease that a shoemaker punches holes in a pair of 
gaiters ; large rolls for bending plates, and other powerful 
machines for bending flanges, &c. Only the very best char- 
coal plate is used in the construction of boilers, and these are 
tested in the most thorough manner. 

These works are now engaged in manufacturing land and 
marine engines, boiler and sheet iron work, as well as every 
description of saw and flour mill and general machinery. Mr. 
Allen inaugurated his commencement by the selection of Mr. A. 
Duelle to act in the capacity of general superintendent of the 
works. Mr. D. has a reputation for being one of the most 
accomplished workmen in the country, and we are certain that 
he has no superior in the West. 

The character of the work turned out by the " Fulton" was 
such as to insure it success, and soon the reputation of these 
works was as bright and fair as those houses which have labored 
for years in building up a name. Among the first engines fin- 
ished by Mr. Allen was one designed to be used in the exten- 
sive Furniture establishment of Mr. G. Marlow. This machine 
is one of the finest we have ever examined, and Mr. M. declares 
that it "works like a charm." We observed that the workmen 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 219 

were engaged in erecting two large and powerful engines for 
Capt. Brierly's new boat, the Ben Lewis ; upon the finish and 
workmanship of these engines we have no doubt that Mr. Allen 
would be willing to risk the reputation of his works ; they will 
soon be finished and ready for use. While wandering over the 
establishment we were shown a number of drawings and orders 
for mill machinery and engines which are destined for our sis- 
ter State, Illinois. It will require some time to complete 
these works, as all the patterns will have to be made ; but when 
they are once finished, we venture to predict (from what wo 
know of Mr. Allen and his facilities for the execution of work) 
that they will excel any thing ever before manufactured in St. 
Louis, and add still another wreath to the garland of fame that 
has already been wove around the Fulton Iron Works. 

The machinery of the Fulton Foundry and Machine Works 
consists of all the latest improvements that have been made, and 
these works boast of being able to compare favorably with any 
establishment in the United States. Their facilities are such 
as enable them to offer inducements of a superior character to 
all who may desire to procure machinery. 

In selecting persons to take charge of the mechanical depart- 
ment of these works, Mr. Allen exercised that principle of fore- 
sight for which he has ever been noted, and that intimate know- 
ledge of the business which a long practical experience enabled 
him to acquire, and the result is seen in every thing that is done. 
The managers take pride in doing their portion of the work a 
little better than that accomplished by any other person, and in 
order that no endeavor may be left untried ; they have secured 
the services of the best workmen in the country. We have been 
informed by a master mechanic that the corps of workmen em- 
ployed at the Fulton Iron Works could not be excelled in the 
United States. 



220 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

There are several leading principles observed in the adminis- 
tration of these works which appear calculated to insure their 
highest efficiency and the best quality in their productions ; one 
is the manufacture upon the spot not only of engines, &c, but 
as far as possible of the materials of which they are composed. 
All the forged work, brass and iron castings, and other parts, 
often purchased outside of other works, are here made in the 
best manner, and with the aid of every fixture to be found in 
the establishment, supplying separately each of these items. 
Another is the greatest possible substitution of machinery for 
manual labor. In these works a smaller proportion of men are 
engaged in hand work than in any similar establishment in the 
country. This circumstance is due to the fact that the tools 
are adapted in a special manner to the execution of each por- 
tion of the work, and that each class of tools is specially appro- 
priated to the distinct portions of the work. In the materials 
used for the engines, wrought iron is used wherever practicable, 
and to the exclusion of cast iron ; thick braziers' copper is 
used exclusively for the tubes, and tough iron is used for all 
important forgings. 

In regard to the quality of the products of the Fulton Works, 
there certainly can be but one candid opinion. In every parti- 
cular they are not only fully equal to those of any other foun- 
dry and machine shop, but in some important points better — not 
the least valuable of which is the simplicity of construction, 
great power and durability, and it is the intention of Mr. Allen 
to spare no pains to render the greatest possible satisfaction, 
and maintain his present reputation for superiority. We would 
advise those of our readers who have leisure, and are fond of 
sight seeing, to visit these works when they are in the Mound 
city, for they will be repaid the trouble ; to those who wish to pur- 
chase articles of machinery or castings, we would also say, call 
and examine the quality and the terms. 



SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 221 



PIKENIX FOUNDRY & AGRICULTURAL WORKS. 

Kingsland &. Ferguson, Proprietors. 

This well known concern commenced business in St. Louis 
early in the year 1844, and has risen from the smallest to be 
the largest manufactory of agricultural machinery in the West. 
Their main establishment is situated on the corner of Second 
and Cherry streets, and is devoted exclusively to the manufac- 
ture of Child's Patent Portable Saw Mills. The reputation 
which this mill has achieved renders it unnecessary for us to 
praise its many virtues. We will only say that those manufac- 
tured by Messrs. K. & F. are recognized by those who have 
tried them to be of a superior quality. 

Their agricultural works are located on Eleventh street, near 
Cass avenue, where they make all their agricultural machines. 

A few of the agricultural implements which they are engaged 
in manufacturing we desire to call the reader's attention to, as 
they are in every way worthy the consideration of our farming 
community. 

Messrs. Kingsland & Ferguson's is at present the only house 
west of the Mississippi river engaged in the manufacture of 
Manny's Patent Mower and Reaper, which is so well and favor- 
ably known throughout the United States and the Canadas. 
This machine has attracted more attention than any similar in- 
vention ever offered to the public. One of them was exhibited 
at the London World's Fair, and succeeded in carrying off the 
gold and silver medals, when they had the whole world to com- 



222 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

pete against. At the late trial of agricultural machinery before 
the United States Agricultural Society, held at Syracuse, New 
York, the gold and silver medals were awarded this machine. 
We do not wish to enumerate all the different fairs where this 
machine has been a successful candidate for prizes, for by so 
doing we should be compelled to mention every fair where it has 
been exhibited, for it has never failed to succeed wherever it has 
been offered. These machines manufactured at the works of 
Messrs. Kingsland & Ferguson are of a superior character, and 
are much preferred to those flimsy things which are made in 
Chicago, and which are constantly breaking and getting out of 
order. To those who intend purchasing one of these machines, 
we would recommend them to procure, if by any means possi- 
ble, one that bears the brand of Messrs. Kingsland & Fergu- 
son as makers. 

They are also engaged in building the Cox & Roberts' Patent 
Thresher and Cleaner, which bears such a favorable reputation 
with the wheat-growing community. The success of this ma- 
chine has been so prominent as to astonish those who are unac- 
quainted with what was required by the farmer. There had 
long existed a want which all the many machines offered had 
failed to supply until this one was brought forth. So simple 
was its construction, and so fully did it answer all that was de- 
manded, that it at once assumed a position as a favorite. In- 
deed it is a great desideratum, as all know that a machine to be 
useful to men who do not generally understand machinery, must 
be free from all extra gearing, and this one is eminently so. 
Its cheapness and adaptability are also considerations which 
receive much attention from purchasers ; it is within the means 
of all, as we understand ; the largest machine, which threshes 
and cleans over four hundred bushels wheat per day, costs com- 
plete only two hundred and seventy-Jive dollars. No neigh- 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 223 

borhood will, we are persuaded,, long L remain without one of 
these machines when this fact becomes generally known. 

Besides these machines which we have specified, Messrs. K. 
& F. engage extensively^ in the manufacture fof many other 
useful and valuable implements.^ In fact they are more largely 
engaged in manufacturing agricultural implements than any 
other house in the West, and we may say, without fear of con- 
tradiction, in the United States. 

Some idea of the amount of work annually turned out from 
these works can be formed from the amount of raw material 
they use ; among the items we may mention twelve hundred 
tons of pig iron, three hundred tons of bar iron, and about one 
million feet of lumber ; besides a large amount of wire, brass, 
&c, &c. 

The working arrangements of their works are very complete ; 
a foreman who is a complete master of his trade has control 
over every department, while a superintendent gives his indi- 
vidual attention to the entire works, giving orders to the fore- 
men of the different branches, and inspecting every article before 
it is offered for sale. They employ a corps of about 250 men 
steadily, and have none but those who are in every way compe- 
tent to fill the position for which they are destined. 

It is a matter of no small moment that such men as Messrs. 
K. & F. are located in our midst. They serve to develop the 
resources of the country, and by their business, energy and 
qualifications, add much to the wealth and prosperity of our 
city. We need not advise our readers to call and examine their 
terms before making purchases elsewhere, as their own good 
sense will suggest the same to them ; but we will take this op- 
portunity to say that they can furnish their machines as cheap 
as they can be made in the East. 



22i SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS, 



MONROE IRON WORKS, 

On Levee, Main and Plum Streets, 
Garlichs, Beck § Fisher, Proprietors, 

For the manufacture of Steam Engines ; Saw, Grist and 
Oil Mill Machinery ; Iron and Brass Castings; Boiler, 
Sheet Iron and Copper Work; Lard and Tobacco Screws; 
Lever Presses; Shafting, #c, Sfc. 

The Monroe Iron Works are situate on Levee, Main and Plum 
streets, being one of the most extensive works in the city, and 
holding a prominent position among the many excellent Foun- 
dries and Machine Shops in our city. The facilities possessed 
by St. Louis for the successful manufacture of all kinds of 
Machinery are far superior to any other city in America, having 
at hand every thing necessary to be used in the construction, 
while the wages paid to mechanics have attracted to our city a 
superior class of workmen, who take pride in executing in the 
best possible style all orders entrusted to them. 

Messrs. Garlichs, Beck & Fisher inaugurated the Monroe 
Iron Works in January, 1857, with a full force of efficient 
workmen in all the various branches of manufacture pursued 
by them. They are now engaged in erecting every variety of 
Land and Marine Engines, Saw, Grist and Oil Mill Machinery, 
Lard and Tobacco Screws, Lever Presses, Shafting, Pulleys, 
Bridge Bolts and Castings, etc., etc., in a style that cannot be 
surpassed either for efficiency or beauty. 

They also manufacture Iron and Brass Castings, Boilers, 
Sheet Iron and Copper work, while special attention is given to 
Blacksmithing and Repairing of every kind. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 225 

The superintendence of these Works is under the immediate 
care of Messrs. Beck & Fisher, gentlemen who have had fifteen 
years' experience in St. Louis, and are perfectly acquainted 
with all the different branches of manufacture they are engaged 
in. Their business is in a flourishing condition, proving beyond 
a doubt that success in St. Louis is in no ways chimerical 
when a legitimate business is followed, and a proper regard paid 
to the wants of the public. 

The Monroe Iron Works are in possession of all the latest 
improvements that have been effected in machinery for the pur- 
pose of facilitating operations in the manufacture of Engines, 
their lathes and machinery being propelled by a large engine, 
which saves a vast amount of manual labor. 

What is called the outside business of this house is under the 
supervision of Mr. F. A. H. Garlichs, the senior partner in the 
firm, and we are convinced that it could not be entrusted to bet- 
ter hands. Possessing in an eminent degree the qualifications 
necessary for the successful transaction of business, he has won 
for his house many firm friends. In all his endeavors to please 
he is ably assisted by Messrs. Beck & Fisher, who aro ever 
ready to answer all calls made upon them. 



FRANKLIN FOUNDRY, 

Comer of Levee and Myrtle Street, 
McCord, & Co., Proprietors, 

For the manufacture of Steam Engines; Saw, Grist and 
Oil Mill Machinery; Lard and Tobacco Screws; Lever 
Presses; Shafting, Pulleys, fyc, &?c. 

This establishment, situated at the corner of Myrtle street 
10* 



226 SKSTCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

and the Levee, and occupying the building numbered 37 and 
38 Levee, and No. 2 Myrtle street, furnishes, at the shortest 
notice, Steam Engines of every desired pattern, together with 
Boilers, Saw and Grist Mill Machinery, Tobacco Screws, 
Presses, Lard Screws and Cylinders, Hydraulic Presses, Brass 
Castings, Builders' Castings, Water Wheels, etc., all of its own 
manufacture. 

This concern commenced operations in October, 1853, over 
four years ago, and since then has turned out many samples 
of machinery, an honor to Western mechanism and skill ; and 
the fact that the excellence of its work is appreciated by those 
desiring work of the kind, is clearly evinced by the steadily 
increasing patronage which has met them at every step. 

The proprietors are men well skilled in their profession, both 
practically and theoretically, and as their work is done under 
their personal supervision, patrons may rely upon all orders 
being filled in a correct and prompt manner. 

St. Louis is of right, and should be, the seat of manufacture 
for all articles of which iron or copper form the principal in- 
gredients, so literally has our State, and indeed almost the im- 
mediate vicinity of our city, been endowed with these gifts of 
Nature. It needs, then, but the capital, skill and industry to 
place our city in it3 proper rank in this matter. So far as their 
ability would permit them, Messrs. McCord & Co. have con- 
tributed their proportion to the accomplishment of that end. 
We bespeak for them, therefore, that consideration and patron- 
age which skill, energy, industry and perseverance should ever 
command, and most certainly deserves. Let those who feel a 
desire to cherish " home manufactures," of this description, 
call and inspect the facilities of this shop, both for manufactur- 
ing and repairing, and we feel certain they will find no difficulty 
in determining where to leave their orders. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 227 



BROADWAY FOUNDRY, 

Corner Broadway and Carr Street, St. Louis, Mo. 
Cuddy, Carpenter & Co. (successors to Cuddy, Merritt & Co.) 

Manufacture Steam Engines, all sizes ; Saw and Grist 
Mill Machinery ; Water Wheels, different palter 7is ; To- 
bacco, Oil and Hydraulic Presses; Boilers; Sheet Iron 
and Brass TVork of every description. 

Twenty- four years ago the firm of Kingsland, Lightner & 
Cuddy, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, opened a warehouse in 
this city for the sale of Stoves, Hollow Ware, Ploughs and 
other Pittsburgh manufactures, and in February, 1836, com- 
menced the present Foundry and Machine Shop, designed as a 
branch of their extensive establishment in the Smoky City. 
St. Louis presented a very different aspect then from what it 
does qow, and in the vicinity of the Foundry buildings, swamps, 
quagmires and hazel bushes occupied the place where now 
large and handsome stores and stately dwellings are to be found. 
Many changes are sure to occur in twenty-two years. The 
two senior members of the firm of Kingsland, Lightner & 
Cuddy — Mr. Lawrence Kingsland and Mr. Isaac Lightner — now 
repose beneath the shades of Bellefontaine Cemetery, while the 
then junior partner has become the senior partner of the pres- 
ent firm of Cuddy, Carpenter & Co. 

Shortly after operations had been commenced in St. Louis 
(or in 1836), Mr. James Cuddy withdrew from the firm of 
Kingsland, Lightner & Cuddy, and engaged in the manufacture 
of Bar Iron, Nails, &c, in which business he continued until 



228 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

the spring of 1852, when he became interested with Mr. Philip 
Kingsland in the old Broadway Foundry, under the style of 
Kingsland & Cuddy. This firm continued in business until 
August, 1856, when Mr. P. Kingsland disposed of his interest 
to Mr. W. H. Merritt, and the firm became Cuddy, Merritt & 
Co. 

Owing to long continued ill health, Mr. Merritt, in the month 
of February of the present year (1858), sold his interest to 
Mr. James M. Carpenter, and the name and style of the pres- 
ent firm became Cuddy, Carpenter & Co. 

This establishment has facilities for manufacturing any thing 
that may be required of them in the way of machinery — having 
a Foundry building on Broadway of 120 feet by 60 feet wide, 
with a cupola and air furnace capable of melting 30 tons of 
iron at a single heat. The Machine Shop building is two and a 
half stories high, 140 feet long by 40 feet wide, exclusive of 
the Engine room and fitting up shop. 

The Blacksmith shop is 80 feet by 30, having eleven fires, 
blown by a fan, (no bellows being used). 

The Boiler and Sheet Iron yard is on the most extensive scale 
— the principal building being two stories high, 60 by 35 feet. 
All of the various buildings are supplied with appropriate and 
costly machinery, and no effort is wanting on the part of the 
proprietors to give satisfaction to their numerous friends and 
patrons. 

The materials used each year are, say 1500 tons pig metal, 
20,000 bushels of coke made from Pittsburgh coal, 40,000 
bushels of Missouri and Illinois coal, 500 tons of bar iron, 175 
tons of boiler iron, 50 tons sheet iron for chimneys and breech- 
ing of boilers. The sales of machinery amount to $180,000 
per year, and the wages paid to bands $1200 per week, the 
number of men and boys employed being one hundred and forty. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 229 

Strangers visiting St. Louis are astonished at the wonderful 
growth of her manufacturing interests, and can only be satis- 
fied of the truth of statements made by personal observation. 

Persons desiring information about machinery of any kind, 
will receive prompt and polite attention from the above estab- 
lishment, should they apply either in person or by letter. 



MONARCH SAFE MANUFACTORY. 

N. Constable & Co., Proprietors. 

This company are engaged in the manufacture of the cele- 
brated Fire Monarch Safe, at their extensive Works, at No. 
2t3 North Main street, and are well known throughout the Val- 
ley of the Mississippi. The reputation of Constable's Fire 
Monarch Safe is wide -spread, there not being scarcely a vil- 
lage in the South and West but where one or more can be 
found. They have been tried and tested so often that they are 
now recognized as being the only truly safe Safe. As a resistant 
to the machinations of the burglar none can begin to compare, 
and, if the truth could be ascertained, we venture the assertion 
that there is not a person in the United States that has been 
the recipient of so many heartfelt curses from that class of 
chevaliers d' industrie as Mr. Constable, and, on the other hand, 
thousands have bestowed upon him their blessings for the pro- 
tection he has been able to extend to them. The list of letters 
and certificates which he has received in praise of the fire-re- 
sistant qualities would fill a volume much larger than this were 
they collected and published ; but Mr. Constable has ever had 
a dislike to the system of bragging which obtains to such an 



230 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

extent among the majority of safe manufacturers, preferring to 
let the reputation of his safe exist upon its merits, and not upon 
the ideal writings of some penny-a-linor and a liberal supply 
of printer's ink. These safes have been exhibited at tho State 
Fairs in Missouri and Illinois, and at every fair held during tho 
last three years, and have always been the successful candidates 
for favor, carrying away the first premiums. They have never 
been known to disappoint the expectations of those who put 
their trust in them. These safes have been tested so thoroughly 
that Mr. Constable had difficulty in being able to meet the de- 
mands which were made upon him for them. Ho has lately 
largely added to the extent of his works and now keeps con- 
stantly on hand a supply in order to furnish his patrons at a 
moment's notice. 

This firm also engages extensively in the manufacture oE 
Bank Locks. The lock which they are making and offering to 
the public is one of the latest inventions, and constructed upon 
the most approved style, both for security and durability. Tho 
reputation of these locks is not so wide as that of his safe; 
but we havo been informed by those who have tried them, and 
by mechanics who are an fait in all that concerns such affairs, 
that they have not a superior, and we doubt not, when sufficient 
time shall have elapsed, that they will bo recognized as worthy 
of tho good qualities claimed for them. 

Mr. N. Constable, the senior partner of this firm, has been 
engaged in the manufacture of safes since the year 18-14. He 
carried on business in Pittsburgh, commencing in that year. In 
1889, we find him working journey work, for a small weekly 
stipend, on the Asbestos Safe, in Pittsburgh ; this safo was at 
that time considered par excellence for fire ; long years he la- 
bored hard from early morning till late at night, in his efforts to 



/SKK'P ii BOOK Of ST. i. on . 231 

lay up something. Whilo busily employed in tlio performance 
of manual labor his active mind was engaged in mggesting im- 
provement!, and, as wo have above stated, be commenced in 
1844 the mannfactare of a lafe to which be gave the nam': of 

the Phoenix. The success that attended bis efforts was flatter- 
ing in the extreme — the safe accomplishing all that was claim- 
ed for it. Having disposer! of his interest in the Phoenix Safe, 
he became associated with the firm of Burke & Barnes, under 
the style of Constable, Burke & Co. ; the prosperity which at- 
tended this move is a guaranty of the articles they produced. 
He began to invest his capital in steamboats, which was consid- 
ered to bo about the best stock going ; his interest on the river 
requiring his personal attention, be disposed Of his interest in 
the Safe business. lie soon found that he had " caught B Tar- 
tar;" the boating trade became miserably bad, and he was soon 
stripped of all he had accumulated by his hard labor. Then 
it was that he returned to his first love, and began again to 
look out for a proper place to commence the manufacture of 
safes. His perceptions led him to select St. Louis as the point 
to inaugurate operations. The causes which led him to make 
this selection was two- fold : first, the large number of extensive 
fires which were constantly occurring throughout the West — tho 
accessibility of the place by steamboat , facilitating the trans- 
portation of his safes to all parts of the country ; and second, 
tho easiness with which all the materials necessary for the pro- 
per construction of his wares could be procured. 

In 1850 we find him here working on his Monarch Safe — a 
safe which is entirely free from dampness, and capable of re- 
sisting as great a degree of: heat as any other manufactured. 

His commencement in the Mound City was not announced 
by a flourish of trumpets, but was carried on in a small, unas- 



232 SKETCH HOOli OF ST. LOUIS. 

suming manner, and two or three years passed away before his 
articles became generally known. A lucky accident brought 
him more intimately into notice — an extensive fire having oc- 
curred in which one or two of his safes were caught, and being 
the only ones that had saved their contents, he began to reap 
the rewards of his labor. He found business increasing so ra- 
pidly that he was compelled to enlarge his shop twice in one 
year. He is now prepared to manufacture to the extent of $150,- 
000 per year, and hopes to be able to meet the demands which 
are made upon him from all quarters. He, in order to be more 
able to accomplish this end, associated with him Mr. D. Caugh- 
lan, a mechanic of known ability and means, as also of vera- 
city and business habits. One house alone sold upwards of 
$40,000 worth of safes during the last year. 

Besides the Monarch Safe, Messrs. Constable & Co. are also 
manufacturing a burglar-proof safe of as good a quality as the 
ingenuity of man is capable of perfecting, which we are as- 
sured will resist any picklock of the Hobbs or any other school ; 
also the drill sledge or chisel. Most of the following gentle- 
men are using the Monarch Safe, and we take the liberty of re- 
ferring to them, to substantiate our assertions in regard to this 
excellent invention : Chouteau, Harrison & Valle ; Child, 
Pratt & Co. ; Durkee & Bullock ; Shapleigh, Day & Co. ; Eads 
& Nelson ; Small, Wells & Co. ; Fife & Micheal ; Pittman & 
Brother ; Gaty, McCune & Co. ; Kingslands & Ferguson ; 
Dowdall, Markham & Co. ; Renfrew, Crozier & Pomeroy ; 
Clark, Plant & Norris ; Field, Beardsley & Co. ; A. & J. Gar- 
diner ; Yeatman & Robinson , Exchange Bank. 



SKETCH EOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 233 

SHEET IRON WORKS. 

B. Noel, Proprietor. 
Main street, between Morgan and Cherry streets. 

The establishment of Mr. B. Noel was first ushered into ex- 
istence in the summer of 1843, to supply a desideratum which 
had long existed in this city. The principal business at that 
time was the manufacture of sheet iron and copper work, yet 
the success which attended Mr. Noel's efforts induced him to 
extend his operations ; he accordingly made the proper arrange- 
ments for the manufacturing of steamboat, railroad and distil- 
lery works. The satisfaction always given by all wares manu- 
factured at this establishment has been the means of building a 
sound and substantial reputation for them throughout the en- 
tire valley of the Mississippi, and at the present day there is not 
a more favored establishment in the West. Using none but the 
very best materials in all his wares, and employing only those 
mechanics who are perfectly acquainted with their business, it 
would be a matter of surprise if he failed to render the utmost 
satisfaction. The entire business is conducted by Mr. Noel, 
who is thoroughly posted in all the minutiae of his business. 
The Works of Mr. Noel are located at No. 231 North Main 
street, between Morgan and Cherry streets, easy of access 
from the Levee and the business portion of the city, and pos- 
sessing many advantages in relation to shipping not attainable 
by other houses. Let all our country friends, when they wish 
to obtain any thing manufactured from copper, tin and sheet 
iron, call on Mr. Noel, for we are confident not a more compe- 
tent person can be found in the West with whom to leave your 
orders, or who will offer better inducements. 



234 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

WM. H. CARD. GEO. GRETHEH. 

FULTON BOILER YARDS & SHEET-IRON WORKS. 

WM. H. CARD & CO., Proprietors. 
Second street, between Cherry and Carr streets. 

Among the numerous manufacturing establishments of St. 
Louis few possess stronger claims upon our attention than the 
concern belonging to the above firm, where the construction of 
boilers, tanks, cupaloes, soap-kettles, chimneys and other huge 
■work employed in steamboats, soap factories, starch factories, 
breweries, mills, &c, is conducted on a scale of magnitude not 
surpassed, if indeed equalled, by any other house in the West- 
ern States. 

The facilities possessed by the above establishment for con- 
ducting an immense business at once strikes the eye on enter- 
ing these extensive premises, where one finds himself surround- 
ed with ingeniously constructed machinery of the most powerful 
and complex character, in which is concentrated the strength of 
a multitude of workmen. Here, amid the noisy din of hun- 
dreds of hammers closing rivets up, you see scores of sturdy 
Vulcans fashioning the huge sheets of metal with all the dex- 
terity and ease of a tinner forming a tin vessel. Another strik- 
ing feature in this establishment is the high degree of order and 
regularity that pervades every department of the extensive 
works, and 'the energy and skill displayed by its proprietors ; 
themselves experienced, enterprising and successful workmen 
of superior attainments, whose maxim it is to use none but the 
best materials in their work, and employ none but the most 
skillful mechanics in the forming of it — the more difficult 
branches of which requiring an intimate acquaintance with prac- 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 235 

tical geometry, is usually done by their own hands ; — thus by 
leaving nothing to depend on the zeal of; others, and inspecting 
personally every piece of metal that comes upon their premises, 
and examining every piece of work before it leaves them, they 
have by untiring energy and care acquired a reputation which 
thousands envy, but few try to merit. 

To convey to the stranger a faint idea of the capabilities of 
this concern, we may add that more than 300 tons of the 
best hammered American charcoal iron is consumed on the 
premises annually ; and here the extent of the business and the 
number of employees often exceeding 100 hands, enables the 
firm to furnish work with a dispatch and at a price that places 
competition out of the question. But, as they say they will not 
be paid for doing bad work, it would be difficult to force them 
to furnish an inferior article on an inducement. 

We would strongly recommend parties in want of any thing 
in the above line to call at the Fulton Yards before purchasing 
elsewhere. 

Mr. Wm. H. Card, the senior partner, superintends the Boiler 
Yards and exercises a general supervision over the establish- 
ment ; while on Mr. George Grether, the junior partner, de- 
pends the management of the Sheet Iron department. 



F. BARNHART, 

STEVEDORE. 

While inspecting the premises of some of the more extensive 
Foundries, we had the pleasure of making the acquaintance of 
Mr. F. Barnhart, who is a striking instance of what may be 
done by skill and activity in our great Western country. Pos- 
sessed of more than ordinary mechanical knowledge relative to 



236 8KBTCI1 BOOK OV ST. LOUIS. 

the moving and transportation of huge masses of machinery, he 
has succeeded in creating for himself a lucrative business in 
this line ; and in the conduct and management of a gang of 
laborers, he is universally acknowledged to be one of the most 
skillful stevedores that St. Louis can boast of. In the wreck- 
ing of steamboats, removing and depositing of heavy machin- 
ery, safes, engines, &c, and the raising of iron chimneys, he is 
without a rival ; and without hesitation or scruple we can con- 
sistently recommend him to any of our friends that may re- 
quire a person of more than ordinary ability to contract for or 
superintend work of the above description. 

At his request we append the following list of the most emi- 
nent firms in the city, who have been pleased to permit him to 
offer them as references : Messrs. Gaty, McCune & Co. ; Dow- 
dall, Markham & Co. ; Wm. H. Card & Co. ; G. B. Allen; 
Renfrew, Crozier & Pomeroy ; Eads & Nelson ; Palm & Ro- 
binson. 

All orders left at the office of Wm. H. Card & Co., on Se- 
cond street, between Cherry and Carr streets, will be promptly 
attended to. 



ST. LOUIS NUT, WASHER, AND BOLT FACTORY. 

A few days since we passed a few hours in examining the St. 
Louis Nut, Washer, and Bolt Factory of Messrs. R. H. Cole 
& Co., situated on the corner of Biddle and Second streets, and 
in conversing with Mr. Cole we learned a lesson fraught with 
interest, and one which, with the reader's privilege, we will re- 
late ; first, however, giving a brief description of the Works and 
their capacity. These Works are owned by Messrs. R. H. 
Cole, Charles P. Chouteau and Jas. J. O'Fallen, and stand 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 237 

alone in grandeur and excellence — having no rival, fearing no 
competitor. The machinery of these works is driven by steam, 
for which purpose a large steam engine is kept constantly in use. 
The machinery consists in a Bolt Machine, five Nut Machines, 
two Washer Machines and a Bolt Screw Machine, which, when 
run with a force of sixteen men and eight boys, turn out the 
almost incredible amount of one ton of Washers, five tons of 
Nuts, and one ton of Screw Bolts per day. This is a small 
estimate, as the middle size Nut Machine is capable of turning 
out ten tons per week, while the larger ones perform their 
work in proportionate speed. The machinery and shop cost, it 
js estimated, about $30,000, and they are now making addi- 
tions, which, when completed, will cost about $5000 more — 
making the total estimated value, $35,000. 

Mr. Cole crossed the Mississippi in 1836 with a light heart 
and a lighter purse — the sum total of his cash capital consist- 
ing of fifty cents. After spending his time up to 1844 in St. 
Charles, he moved to St. Louis and went to work as a journey- 
man for eight dollars per week, at Gaty, McCune & Co.'s 
Foundry, and labored hard for a time, at the end of which 
he commenced business for himself on Market street, with 
a capital of eighteen dollars, and often was he compelled to 
borrow three or four dollars from some friend, post off' to the 
Levee and purchase iron, and carry it home on his back, and 
when it was worked up repeat the operation. While thus pur- 
suing his laborious avocation from the fall of '44 to '54, he be- 
gan to think there was a plan by which Nuts and Washers 
could be made much easier than by hand. Some partus in 
Pittsburgh were manufacturing a hot- punched Nut which was 
of a superior quality to the old style. Mr. Cole soon had plan- 
ned a machine by which he was enabled to arrive at t'le manu- 
facture of a Pressed Nut, but the means employed were differ- 



238 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

ent. It was what he had been laboring for. He applied for 
and received a patent. The first patent was granted him in 
1855, since which time he has made several improvements — one 
for a new mode of manufacturing Nuts, and received a patent 
for every one — making six that he has received for his Nut 
Machine during that period. He then set himself to work to 
arrange some plan by which he could apply machinery to the 
manufacture of Screws ; here again success crowned his efforts. 
For this machine a patent is being applied for. By the arrange- 
ment greater speed is attained, and a Screw is made which is of 
a superior quality. He next turned his attention towards the 
invention of machinery for the purpose of making Bolts. In 
this he was pleased to find his most sanguine expectations 
realized by the accomplishment of his wishes. He laid his 
claims before the Patent Office and a patent has been issued to 
him for it. 

Mr. Cole has within the past few years received eleven pat- 
ents for machinery used in his business, and has an application 
pending for another, and four in process of being applied for. 
His inventions are all of a very superior character, and of 
more importance than would at first be supposed. He has now 
in successful operation in England four of his machines for the 
manufacture of Nuts and one for Bolts. From a letter he had 
just received from the young gentleman whom he had sent out 
to attend to his interests, we learn that they have more orders 
for Nuts and Bolts than they are able to fill, although one man 
is constantly engaged in his endeavors so to do. He writes : 
" I sometimes wish no more orders would be sent forward till 1 
have had time to clear up ; as soon as one is filled another is 
received." 

Mr. Cole's son has taken one of these machines to Belgium, 
and by this time must have it in successful operation. No in- 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 239 

vention of late years has been made that has deservedly at- 
tracted so much attention, where it has been known. 

Mr. Cole sold one-half of his right in the United States to 
Mr. Charles P. Chouteau, a few years ago ; and last fall they 
sold one-third to Mr. James J. O'Fallen. They are now pre- 
pared to furnish the entire West with Bolt3, Nuts, and Wash- 
ers, on terms so advantageous as to defy competition, let it 
come from whatever source it may. Their trade at present ex- 
tends to all parts of the country ; but it i3 the intention of Mr. 
Cole to establish his machines in some of the Eastern cities ; 
and had not the panic disarranged all monetary affairs, he would 
have consummated this intention last fall. 

Mr. Cole is one of those persons whose noble nature shines 
forth in good deeds ; he is a firm friend, a shrewd business 
man, and calculated to win the respect and esteem of all with 
whom he comes in contact. No visitor should ever leave the 
Mound City without taking a look at the "Works of Messrs. R. 
H. Cole & Co., for they will repay one the trouble, and are 
monuments to the mechanical skill and ingenuity of the in- 
ventor. 



Fine Shirts. — We have never examined a finer or more 
varied' assortment of Gentlemen's Furnishing Goods than the 
stock now on the shelves of Messrs. Ticknor, Robbins & Co.'s 
Wholesale and Retail Clothing Emporium, at No. 176 North 
Main street. Their stock embraces linen, marseilles, French 
calico, railroad and travelling shirts of the latest fashion, with 
and without French cuffs and Byron collars; undershirts, draw- 
ers, handkerchiefs, cravats, gloves, suspenders, etc., abound in 
generous profusion, all of which are offered to cash customers 
at astonishingly low figures. 



240 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 



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SKETCH BOOK OF 6T. LOUIS. 241 



MISCELLANEOUS. 

WHAT WE SAW AT THE 

AGRICULTURAL WORKS, WAREHOUSE AND SEED STORE 

OF 

CLARK, PLANT & NORRIS, 

Manufacturers of and Wholesale and Retail Dealers in 

AGRICULTURAL MACHINES & TOOLS, IN ENDLESS VARIETY 

— Also — 
GARDEN, GRASS AND OTHER SEEDS, 

At No. 14 North Main street — Manufactory, North-west corner of Main and 
Biddle streets, St. Louis, Mo. 

One of the most interesting places in St. Louis to spend an 
hour profitably is the Agricultural Factory, Warehouse and Seed 
Store of Clark, Plant & Norris. They have a store — the prin- 
cipal one — at No. 14 Main street, and another at Nos. 203 
Fourth street and 218 Broadway ; and their Factory is situated 
at the corner of Main and Biddle streets. This house commen- 
ced business in the year 1845, for the purpose of furnishing to 
the Western farmer all the necessary implements and machinery 
for the easy and successful pursuit of his business. Such a 
house was needed to keep pace with the increased number en- 

11 



242 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

gaged in agricultural pursuits ; and as a natural consequence 
their business has grown with the agricultural interests of the 
West, until from the beginning of only one store, they have in- 
creased to two, and^established a Factory for the manufacture 
of many kinds of agricultural machinery, giving employment to 
a large number of men in their several capacities of salesmen, 
book-keepers, clerks, mechanics and laborers, and investing a 
large capital, establishing the fact that they may truly be con- 
sidered one of the principal houses of the city. 

We visited this house for the purpose of getting some items 
and data from which to form a sketch. We were shown some 
of the machinery of their own manufacture, the most important 
of which was Selby's Wheat Drill and Broad- Cast Seed Sower, 
a hand Hay Press, Moffett's Thresher and Cleaner, and Page's 
and Childs' Portable Circular Saw Mills — the latter is equally 
adapted to either horse, steam or water-power, having two 
saws so arranged that logs of any size can be sawed in quan- 
tity from 1200 to 10,000 feet a day. Our attention was next 
arrested by the great variety of Plows adapted to all modes of 
culture and calculated for every variety of soil found in this 
section of country ; conspicuous among which is the celebrated 
steel Eagle, manufactured by machinery, each part so adjusted 
that in case of repair any part can be furnished, with the as- 
surance that such part will be certain to fit, and besides, insur- 
ing uniform operation in each size or pattern of Plow. We 
next noticed the Harrows, Horse Hoes, Cultivators and Rollers, 
among other tools for cultivating the ground, which class of im- 
plements was most ample and complete, judiciously adapted to 
the saving of labor and the increase in yield of crops — forming 
a class of tools of the greatest use and value to the agricultu- 
rist. The assortment of harvesting tools and machinery was 
complete, presenting to view Mowers, Reapers (single and 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 243 

combined, with and without self- rakers), Horse Rakes, Rakes, 
Forks, Scythes, &c, &c. Then the assortment of miscellaneous 
tools and machinery was perfectly bewildering, surpassing our 
limits to describe ; we shall content ourselves by only enumer- 
ating some of the most conspicuous and useful, namely — Cider 
Mills and Presses ; Corn and Cob Crushers and Grinders ; 
Portable Flour and Corn Burr Stone Mills ; Garden, Horticul- 
tural, Haying, Harvesting, Hydraulic, and Mechanical Imple- 
ments and Tools ; Seed Sowers ; Corn Planters ; Hay and 
Straw Cutters ; Ox Yokes ; Bow Pins ; Apple Parers ; Cattle 
Ties, &c, &c. In fact we never before had an idea of the ex- 
tent to which the ingenuity of man had exerted itself in the in- 
vention and production of labor-saving machines. Farmers 
visiting the city for their supplies should not fail to look over 
this establishment, where they will find a depot for the supply 
of a large portion of their wants. 

In addition to which, this house doe3 a large business in 
Seeds — comprising Garden, Grass, Flower, and every other 
kind which the wants of the country demand. This depart- 
ment is unsurpassed, having an enviable reputation for fur- 
nishing reliable sorts, as to freshness and purity — having, be- 
side their large retail trade, an extensive wholesale trade with 
country merchants — their facilities being such as to enable them 
to put up garden seeds in papers for the country trade in a 
mannner to compete with Eastern garden prices. 

We would respectfully recommend to the farmers throughout 
the west, as well as country merchants, when they wish to pro- 
cure a supply of seeds, or obtain any agricultural implements, 
to call and examine the stock of Messrs. Clark, Plant & Norris 
before closing bargains elsewhere; they will be found to be 
courteous and reliable men and worthy of patronage. 



244 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 



EAGLE STEAM AND GAS PIPE WORKS. 

JOHN GOODIN, Proprietor. 

This establishment, located No. 42 Vine street, between 
Second and Third streets, is one of the most thorough of its 
kind in the United States, and is the only one in the Mississippi 
Valley provided with all the late improvements in machinery for 
Iron Pipe work. Mr. John Goodin, in company with Mr. 
Charles A. Tooker, established these works in St. Louis in 
February, 1850, for the purpose of being able to meet the re- 
quirements of the trade, and the success which has attended 
their efforts must be gratifying. Mr. Tooker died in 1855, 
since which time Mr. Goodin has been sole proprietor and man- 
ager of the house. 

Mr. Goodin is the owner of the patent for Gold's Steam 
Heating Apparatus for the States of Missouri, Iowa and 
Southern Illinois. This plan of heating is rapidly superseding 
all other modes in the eastern cities. It is easily adjustable for 
churches, halls, asylums and schools. The ornamental arange- 
ment which this apparatus permits, peculiarly recommends it 
for private dwellings. Its economy of fuel and cleanliness 
render it superior to any other apparatus, and above all, the 
healthful character of the heat entitles it to especial consideration. 
To persons afflicted with pulmonary complaints, steam heated 
apartments are to a great extent an efficient remedy. Pam- 
phlets, fully descriptive of the construction and working prin- 
ciples of the apparatus, will be furnished at the counting-room 
of Mr. Goodin. 

Some of the most extensive jobs of steam heating in the coun- 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 245 

try are from this manufactory. Managers of public institutions 
or proprietors of large hotels desirous of introducing steam heat, 
with all the attachments for culinary, washing, drying and bath- 
ing purposes, would serve their interest by calling upon Mr. 
Goodin when procuring estimates for this kind of work. 

Attached to the manufactory is a Brass Foundry capable of 
furnishing all descriptions of brass castings. Persons desiring 
work of this kind will find here a large variety of patterns of 
articles in general use. Having extensive facilities for manu- 
facturing and keeping constantly on hand a large stock of iron 
pipe, boiler flues, valves, steam and gas-fittings, the proprietor 
will be enabled to fill promptly all orders in this line. A " list 
of prices" will be furnished on application at the manufactory. 

A branch to which Mr. Goodin has devoted particular atten- 
tion for several years is " Steamboat Work." The result is, 
that wrought iron pipe is now in almost universal use, instead 
of copper. It is far more durable than copper and costs about 
one half. Engineers will find many of their wants anticipated 
and provided for at this place. 

Experience has fully demonstrated the benefits of Portable 
Gas Works, where opportunities do not exist of being sup- 
plied from city gas works, and it has been a desideratum to 
procure an article of this kind, simple in construction and effi- 
cient in its working. Such an apparatus, secured by patent, is 
manufactured by Mr. Goodin. For asylums, colleges or semi- 
naries, and suburban residences, these gas works are peculiarly 
applicable. All orders for fitting houses with gas pipe will re- 
ceive prompt attention. 

Proposals will be furnished for building gas works for cities, 
towns and villages, and information given as to forming stock 
companies for such purposes. The names of the following 
gentlemen will be sufficient guaranty that all work will be skill- 



246 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

fully executed: Mr. James R. Duncan, Superintendent of the 
building of Gas Works ; Mr. Henry S. Lansdell, Superinten- 
dent of Steam Heating Apparatus ; Mr. David A. Brislin, 
Foreman of the shops. 

A visit to this place will fully substantiate all we have said 
in relation to the establishment. 



HUNT & WISEMAN, 

PLANE MANUFACTURERS 

— 'AND — 

Dealers in Hardware, Cutlery, and Mechanics' Tools, 

No. 101 North Third Street. 

This house, the only one west of the Mississippi river devoted 
to this branch of manufacture, has deservedly attracted a large 
share of public attention since its establishment in 1850, both 
from the superior excellence of their wares and the liberal terms 
upon which they are afforded to the purchaser. A few years 
ago the idea prevailed that there could not be manufactured in 
the West any kind of tools worth noticing, but that opinion has 
gradually given way before the overwhelming proof to the con- 
trary, and we now find Planes bearing the brand of Messrs. 
Hunt & Wiseman upon the bench of almost every carpenter in 
our city. What was merely attempted by these gentlemen as 
an experiment, has grown into a large and lucrative business, 
and one which now occupies a capital of $25,000, and keeps in 
steady employment about eighteen workmen of a superior char- 
acter. 

Besides their splendid assortment of Planes, they are engaged 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 247 

as wholesale and retail dealers in Hardware, Cutlery and Mechan- 
ics' Tools, having always on hand a full assortment of Carpen- 
ters', Cabinet Makers' and Ship Carpenters' Tools of a superior 
quality to any that have ever been offered for sale in this market. 
Also, Builders' Hardware of every description, consisting of 
Sliding Door Furniture ; Mortice, Rim, Plate and Upright 
Locks, of various qualities ; Latches, Bolts, Butts, Hinges, 
Shutter and Sash Fastenings ; Window Springs ; Shutter Lifts 
and Screws ; Axle Pulleys ; Sash Cord ; Door Bells and Pulls ; 
Door Springs ; Gimlet Screws ; Nails, Brads, Finishing Nails, 
Casting Nails ; Cut and Wrought Spikes^; Circular, Mill and 
Cross-cut Saws ; Files, Rasps, Chopping Axes, Coffee Mills, 
&c. We are confident that Messrs. Hunt & Wiseman can sell 
goods upon as favorable terms as any other house in the United 
States, and we would advise those purchasers who desire to 
consult their own interests to call and examine their stock and 
list of prices before making purchases elsewhere. 



HORACE E . D1MICK & CO., 

No. 38 North Main Street, 

Manufacturers and Importers of Guns, Pistols, Rifles, 

Bowie Knives, and Sporting Apparatus in all its 

branches. 

The position held by this house is second to none in the world, 
and has been achieved mainly by the exertions of Mr. Horace 
E. Dimick, whose name is familiar wherever the rifle is used. 
This firm established themselves in St. Louis in 1849, and at 
once attracted a large share of public attention on account of 
the splendid assortment of fire-arms that composed their stock. 



248 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

Mr. Dimick has passed twenty years in handling and manufac- 
turing arms, and we only state a well known fact when we say 
that he has not his superior in the world. The junior partner 
also has an extensive practical knowledge of the business, and 
has rarely met his equal. The stock on hand of these gentle- 
men consists of every thing embraced in the paraphernalia of 
the sportsman — Guns, Pistols, Colt's Revolvers, Rifles, Bowie 
Knives, Dirks, Revolvers of different patterns, Fishing Tackle 
in the greatest abundance, Game Bags, etc. 

H. E. Dimick & Co., besides engaging extensively in the man- 
ufacture of weapons, import largely from the manufactories in 
Europe. In selecting their stock, the practical knowledge of 
the members of the firm renders them valuable assistance, as 
they are thereby enabled to obtain the very best, and refuse all 
that does not fully answer their requirements. 

Mr. Dimick has invented a Torpedo Rifle Cannon for the 
purpose of blowing up ships and fortresses, which is attracting 
the serious attention of our Government. By using this cannon 
it would be rendered impossible for an enemy's fleet to enter an 
American harbor with any hope of success. This invention 
was perfected and thoroughly tested by Mr. Dimick before he 
offered it for inspection; but now that it is completed, he has no 
fears of its failure to accomplish all that he claims for it. 

Those of our readers who attended the last annual Agricultu- 
ral and Mechanical Fair held at St. Louis, will recollect the 
splendid display made by Messrs. Dimick & Co. upon that oc- 
casion, when they succeeded in carrying off the first prizes in 
every instance. 

We would urge upon those who intend to purchase any thing 
in their line to give Messrs. Dimick & Co. a call, as we are cer- 
tain they will fill all orders upon as favorable terms as any other 
house in the world. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUI?. 249 

SEED STORE AND AGRICULTURAL WAREHOUSE, 

Landreth & Son, Proprietors, 
No. 18 Main Street. 

This house is a branch of the well known Philadelphia estab- 
lishment of Messrs. D. Landreth & Son, and is under the man- 
agement of Mr. T. Rennell, a gentleman of fine business 
attainments. 

The business capacities of this house are such as to render 
them capable of successfully competing with older established 
houses in our midst. The parent house is the oldest one in 
the United States, having been established soon after the close 
of the Revolutionary War. The farm and garden implements 
are manufactured at their extensive steam works at Bristol, 
Pennsylvania, and embrace almost every article of merit. 

The Seed department of this house is perfect in every re- 
spect. The seeds are cultivated under the personal superintend- 
ence of Messrs. Landreth & Son, at their extensive gardens at 
Bloomsdale, upon the banks of the Delaware. The reputation 
of " Landreth's Seeds" have become so familiar to every per- 
son that it would be needless for us to write an eulogy upon 
their merits. 

We can assure our readers that a visit to the house of these 
gentlemen, at No. 18 Main street, will afford ample reason for 
self- congratulation. 

This house does not seek to enrich itself by large profits, 
but depends upon the number and extent of their sales, believ- 
ing that " large sales and small profits" are far preferable to 
" large profits and small sales." They have, by keeping this 
object in view, gained many warm and staunch friends. 
11* 



250 



SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 




BRANCH, CROOKES & CO. 

These gentlemen are engaged in the manufacture of Cast 
Steel Saws of every description, and of a quality superior to 
any ever offered for sale in this market. An experience in our 
city of five years has demonstrated this fact to our people, and 
we now find the saws of this house in general use among our 
manufacturers and machinists. Their intimate knowledge of 
the steel trade in Sheflield, England, and an acquaintance with 
the manufacturers of steel, enables them to obtain the saw ma- 
terial upon terms so favorable that they can defy successful 
competition. Their Circular Saws are of a superior character 
and maintain a fine reputation throughout the Mississippi Val- 
ley. We would recommend persons desirous of purchasing a 
stock of Saws to give Messrs. Branch, Crookes & Co. a call 
at their sales-room, No. 18 Vine street, directly opposite King's 
Hotel. 



SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 



251 



john cook; 

8 MANUFACTURER OF 

WACONS;CARTS,DRAYS.& WHEELBARROWS; 



^ 




JOHN COOK, 

WAGON AND CART MANUFACTURER. 

The Wagon Manufactory of Mr. John Cook, situate between 
Jefferson and Monroe streets, at No. 692 Broadway, being one of 
the largest houses in the western country, needs from our hands 
a notice. 

This house was established as a Wagon Manufactory ia 
1848, and did a flourishing business. The great demand 
made upon Mr. Cook for his wagons induced him to add many 
new features to his already extensive works, and accordingly in 
1853 we find that he had erected a large blacksmith shop and 
engaged the services of a corps of competent and skillful 
workmen. The reason that induced Mr. Cook to make this 
addition was the complaints that had been made to him of the 
bad manner in which the iron work was executed. In having 
the blacksmithing done under his immediate supervision, he was 



252 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

enabled to obviate for the future all such complaints. He is 
now extensively engaged in the manufacture of Wagons, Carts, 
Drays and Wheelbarrows, of every description and quality, and 
challenges from his rivals successful competition, either as re- 
gards the quality of the work or the price. 

Few establishments of this kind in the western country have 
won a more valuable reputation than this. It is one of the 
best in the city, and from the first has been turning out its 
manufactures " upon honor." Every thing is superintended 
by the proprietor in person, materials of the most reliable 
character only allowed to be used, and workmen of superior 
skill and experience employed in every department of their 
work. The result has been that, from a small and unostentatious 
beginning, it has grown into an extensive "institution," and 
become one of the most popular in the West. 

Many advantages are employed here in the wagon manufac- 
ture that act strongly in its favor at this point. It has been 
satisfactorily demonstrated that materials in the timber and iron 
line can be obtained here that are more reliable and at more 
reasonable prices than in any other manufacturing city in the 
United States. 

Mr. Cook, the proprietor of this extensive establishment, pos- 
sesses all the necessary requirements to attract a large and 
valuable trade, and we would advise our readers to call and 
examine his stock. 



Messrs. Ticknor, Robbins & Co. have the finest stock of 
ready made clothing ever brought to St. Louis, which they are 
selling at astonishingly low prices, for cash, at their clothing 
emporium, No. 176 North Main street. 



SKETC1I BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 253 



PREMIUM WIRE WORKS, 

R. C. Ludlow, Proprietor, 
No. 59 Market Street. 

This establishment was organized in April, 1856, by Mr. E. 
R. Davis, who possessed a thoroughly practical knowledge of 
the business, and succeeded much beyond his most sanguine ex- 
pectations. Business steadily increasing, he, in July, 1856, 
admitted Mr. R. C. Ludlow into the concern. The business 
was conducted by these gentlemen with success till July, 1857, 
when Mr. Davis disposed of his interest on account of ill- 
health rendering him unfit to perform the active duties required 
by the business of the concern. Mr. Ludlow, having purchased 
Mr. Davis' interest, assumed entire control, and has since con- 
ducted the affairs of the house with the same success that has 
ever marked its career. 

The stock on hand is large and varied, consisting in part of 
the following articles : Wire Cloth, for fan mills, threshing 
machines, flour mills, starch and paper mills, locomotives, &c; 
Bird Cages, both japanned and wooden frame, of a style, va- 
riety and finish unsurpassed ; Sieves and Riddles of iron, 
brass, or copper wire, and for all conceivable purposes ; Stand- 
ing Screens, for sand, lime, malt, coal, gravel, &c. ; Iron 
Wire, for fencing and all other purposes ; Rat and Mouse 
Traps, of all shapes, sizes and contrivances. Also, a great 
variety of Miscellaneous Articles, such as nursery fenders, 
flower stands, dog muzzles, corn poppers, dish covers, wire 
gridirons, bird nests, seed, seed glasses, egg whips, egg pan- 



254 SKBTCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

niers, mullers, scoops, toasters, &c, &c. Fancy Wire Work 
of all kinds made to order at short notice and in the very best 
style. 

The utmost attention has always been paid to the jobbing 
or wholesale trade, and he is now steadily extending the area 
of territory over which he distributes his wares. From New 
Orleans on the South, St. Paul on the North, and from all parts 
of the Great West have orders been sent forward, which he has 
filled upon terms far more favorable to the Western dealer than 
could be afforded by the manufacturers in the East. 

Every person who was present at the St. Louis Agricultural 
and Mechanical Fair of 1857, will doubtless remember the 
" Gallinarum" or Chicken Palace which deservedly attracted so 
much attention from every one, as one of the most finished 
pieces of wire work in the world, and for which Mr. Ludlow 
received a diploma and twenty- five dollars premium. 

This establishment employs about twenty hands, using annu- 
ally over twenty-five tons of wire and manufacturing about 
20,000 yards of wire cloth, 3,000 dozen sieves for meal and 
flour, 500 dozen riddles for hardware and foundry uses, 150 
dozen bird cages of various styles, besides innumerable other 
articles pertaining to the business. Employing none but the 
best workmen, and using the very best material, he can with 
confidence recommend to dealers all goods of his manufacture, 
and can sell upon terms equally as favorable as can be offered 
by Eastern dealers. Should you visit the Mound City, do not 
fail to call at the sales rooms of Mr. R. C. Ludlow, No. 59 
Market street. 



SKETCII BOOK OF ST. LOUI8. 255 

SHIP BUILDING. 

By C. M. BROOKS & CO. 

This is one of the oldest established firms in St. Louis, hav- 
ing been formed in 1832, for the purpose of conducting the 
business of Ship Building, Steamboat Building, Caulking, Job- 
bing in general, and Sub- Marine Docking and Repairing. 

These gentlemen are all well known to the large majority of 
the residents of St. Louis, and we believe there is not a steam- 
boat man who comes to our city but who has heard them spo- 
ken of in connection with their business, so intimately have 
they been connected with the boat- building interest of the 
West. They are always ready at a moment's notice to attend 
to Jobbing ; and in order to facilitate the progress of their 
work, they are supplied with a large assortment of all the late 
improvements in machinery. They keep constantly on hand 
flat-boats, jack screws, clamps, lifting screws, &c, which are 
often required in order that a proper regard may be obtained in 
all cases where neatness and dispatch are required. 

Messrs. Brooks & Co. can always be found at the corner of 
Ashley and Main streets, where we beg leave to refer all those 
who desire any work in this line of business performed. We 
are certain that they can please all who favor them with their 
patronage, as they do not use any but the best quality of tim- 
ber, and employ good mechanics, who understand their busi- 
ness ; and give their own personal attention to the work, in or- 
der that they may be sure that it is well done. 

To our steamboat friends we would particularly recommend 
this house as in every respect worthy their confidence and con- 
sideration, and who will not disappoint any trust that may be 
entertained of them. 



256 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

ST. LOUIS SCALE FACTORY. 

Messrs. Muennigliaus & Co., manufacturers of J. A. Ross' 
celebrated Platform, Hay, Coal, Cattle, Railroad and Counter 
Scales, commenced business in this city one year ago, at Nos. 
247 and 249 North Second street, where they have already won 
for themselves a reputation worthy many older houses. They 
possess every facility for the manufacture of their wares, and 
have exerted themselves to meet the wants of the public. They 
have succeeded in their undertaking, and are now looked upon 
as superior workmen. 

The greatest difficulty has always been experienced in get- 
ting a Scale that was perfectly true ; the difficulty is entirely 
obviated by the Scales manufactured at the establishment of 
Messrs. M. & Co. Although hundreds have been completed 
and sold during the past twelve months, no complaints have 
been expressed ; but on the contrary every voice has been uni- 
ted in extending their praise. 

They have a superior corps of mechanics employed, and use 
the very best material that can be procured ; by so doing, they 
are enabled to present the public with a Scale that will, in every 
way, meet the expectations of the purchaser and the demands 
of the public. No one should make a purchase of any article 
in the line of this house without giving them a call and looking 
over their stock and examining their list of prices. We are al- 
most certain they will thank us for letting them know that such 
good bargains can be made. They are also prepared to repair 
in the very best style, in the most durable manner, and on the 
shortest notice. 

They also devote a portion of their business to the manufac- 
ture of Trucks for railroads and steamboats, etc., which is a de- 
sideratum in this city. These gentlemen are both energetic busi- 
ness men, and every way worthy the confidence of the public. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 257 



STEAM DYEING ESTABLISHMENT. 

A. H. HENDERSON, Proprietor. 

New No. 30 — Old No. 48 Pine street, South-east corner of Alley, between 
Second and Third streets. 

This establishment has been in successful operation for up- 
wards of twelve years, and has never experienced a greater 
degree of prosperity than during the period that it has been 
under the control of the present proprietor, who lets no pains 
be spared to render the most perfect satisfaction to all parties. 

Mr. Henderson has recently fitted up the finishing rooms of 
this establishment with improved machinery for the finishing of 
Silks, Crapes, Woolen and Damask Goods of every description, 
by which means he is prepared to clean, dye and finish all man- 
ner of ladies' goods in a style that defies competition. 

To gentlemen wishing clothes renovated we will say that Mr. 
H. has a perfect knowledge of his business, and employs none 
but the very best workmen, thereby enabling him to guaranty to 
his customers the execution of their work in the best style. 

Coats, Pants and Vests carefully renovated. All stains to 
which such garments are liable are carefully extracted without 
injuring the fabric, and warranted not to reappear, being clean- 
ed and finished by the same method by which the goods are fin- 
ished in the factories. The cloth feels soft and pliable, and is 
not liable to take dust, nor emit any unpleasant smell, as all 
cloths that are cleaned (?) with soaps or gall, and other so- 
called chemical process, invariably do, which also rot the cloth, 
and make it hard, and ever after liable to take in dirt. 

Mr. H. also gives particular attention to the dying of Straw 
Goods; also to the re- coloring of damaged goods, which he 
refinishes in a style to render it impossible to discover that 



258 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LODIS. 

any thing had ever been the matter -with them. Crape Shaws 
cleaned and made to look as good as new, while Silks are 
watered to order. Remember Mr. H.'s number is old forty- 
eight Pine street. 



UNDERTAKING ESTABLISHMENT. 

GEORGE N. LYNCH, Proprietor. 

No. 53 North Fifth street. 

This establishment is the oldest one west of the Mississippi 
river, having been commenced by Mr. W. A. Lynch, the father 
of the present proprietor, in 1829. It now possesses in an 
eminent degree the requisite facilities necessary for the success- 
ful transaction of the business to which it is devoted. Previous 
to his death Mr. W. A. Lynch built up a reputation such as any 
man might be proud to transmit to his children. After his de- 
cease the control of the business passed into the hands of Mr. 
George N. Lynch, who has, by constant attention, added much 
to the already established reputation of the house. 

At the present time Mr. Lynch has the largest assortment of 
Coffins to be found in the West, embracing every thing from the 
common black walnut to the splendid sarcophagus — the most 
elegant and respectable for the dead ever invented. These burial 
cases are made of an indestructible material, and will last as 
long as time itself. 

Connected with this establishment is a splendid Hearse — in- 
deed, the finest one in the world — which, together with any num- 
ber of carriages, will be furnished upon the shortest notice. 

Mr. Lynch is a well-known and highly esteemed citizen, and 
deserves the respect he receives from all classes. We know of 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 259 

no person whom we would recommend with more perfect confi- 
dence of his ability to fulfill all the duties of an Undertaker 
than Mr. George N. Lynch. 



FURS AND FUR GOODS. 

Mr. Lewis Peters, importer and manufacturer, and wholesale 
and retail dealer in Fancy Furs, has the most extensive estab- 
lishment of the kind west of the Alleghany mountains. His 
business house is situated at No. 65, corner of North Fifth and 
Locust streets, opposite the Mercantile Library. 

Mr. Peters commenced business in St. Louis in 1840, and 
for eighteen years has stood in the front rank of successful 
dealers in Fur Goods. There are few persons who possess as 
complete and thorough knowledge of all the minutiae of the Fur 
Trade as Mr. P., and consequently few can compete with him 
in holding out inducements to those wishing to make purchases. 

Mr. Peters purchases all kinds of American Furs, paying the 
highest prices the market calls for, and manufactures them into 
various kinds of Fur goods. Having in his employ a number 
of first class workmen, and giving his own personal supervision 
to his business, he is enabled to offer bargains to all who favor 
him with their patronage, such as can not fail to secure atten- 
tion. Possessing every facility that the "West offers over the 
East, Mr. Peters can sell his goods much cheaper than the same 
quality of goods can be sold for in New York. 

To persons who have never taken all the facts into considera- 
tion, this may seem strange ; but when we reflect that St. Louis 
is now and has been for years the great Fur mart of the world, 
we are no longer surprised, but instead are convinced. 

Mr. Peters will preserve Furs fro damage by moths, &c, 



260 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

during the summer for those who desire it, and have them ready 
when called for in the fall, in the best order, looking as good 
as when they were first purchased. 

We would suggest to the dealers in Fur goods to give Mr. 
Peters a call when they visit St. Louis, and examine his stock. 
We feel assured that they will never regret having^done so. 

Mr. Peters took the medal at the first Agricultural Fair, and 
a premium at the last Fair. 



ST. LOUIS GLASS WORKS. 

This establishment is situated on the corner of Broadway and 
Monroe street, and occupies about one hundred and twenty-five 
feet front on each street. The proprietors established their bu- 
siness in May, 1854, and have since been engaged in perfecting 
it. St. Louis possesses greater advantages for the successful 
prosecution of this branch of trade than any other city in the 
West. With any quantity of the raw material at our doors, we 
are surprised that a greater number of persons have not engag- 
ed in the business. A short account of these Works may prove 
of interest to the reader. When the company entered upon 
this business they knew little or nothing about it ; yet they were 
firmly convinced that if proper efforts were made, they could not 
fail to succeed. They accordingly invested a large amount of 
capital, and commenced operations by erecting their works upon 
the locality above mentioned, and have constantly been adding 
to them until they have arrived at their present position. A short 
time since we visited these works for the purpose of examining 
them, and were surprised at the extent and capacity of them. 
On entering the pattern room we found eight men engaged in 
getting up new patterns of different styles for the manufacture 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 261 

of pressed glass- ware. This department is one of the most 
difficult and costly connected with the business — many of the 
patterns costing two hundred dollars, and few less than thirty- 
five dollars. At the present time they have the most complete 
assortment of patterns. From thence we were conducted to the 
room where the sand is prepared ; here we found the arrange- 
ments in complete order. On entering the cutting department 
we were astonished at the extensive arrangements that greeted 
us, and so on throughout the entire establishment. 

They have now two furnaces in constant operation — one ca- 
pable of containing ten pots, the other six — and now turn out 
about $2000 worth of glass-ware per week — working as they 
do about seventy -five hands. The pots in which the metal is 
melted are manufactured from clay found but a short distance 
from the works, and which is, we are informed, equal to that 
imported from Europe. 

We feel confident in asserting that this company can man- 
ufacture every variety of glass as cheap, if not cheaper, than 
it can be done in Pittsburgh. Heretofore our merchants have 
overlooked this establisment, principally for the reason that this 
company were not fully prepared to execute every variety of 
work ; but now that they have overcome all difficulties, we may 
look for a change in the glass trade. 

This company is prepared to duplicate all orders from the 
Pittsburgh manufactories, thus saving to our dealers the cost 
of transportation. When this fact becomes generally known, 
we may look for a marked change in the trade. 

It is the intention of this company to erect extensions to 
their buildings and set up a stack for the purpose of manufac- 
turing green glass upon a more extensive scale than they have 
heretofore done. 



262 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

Let our friends call and examine the specimens and prices at 
the company's store-rooma, No. 75 North Second street, and 
become convinced of the truth of what we have written. 



DR. EASTERLY, 

MANUFACTURER AND DEALER XN 

POPULAR FAMILY MEDICINES, 

South-east comer of Third and Chesnui sts., St. Louis, Mo. 

A work upon St. Louis and its progress would be incomplete 
were it to omit the establishment of Dr. Easterly, so intimately 
is he connected with the growth of our city. Commencing bu- 
siness in St. Louis on a small scale, when our city was yet 
small, he has grown with the growth of the city, until he now 
stands forth as a specimen of what extensive business qualifica- 
tions and strict integrity in all relations of life can accomplish. 
Possessing an excellent medical education, Dr. Easterly thought 
it his duty to give the suffering masses the benefit of his medi- 
cal experience. In 1844 the Dr. commenced the manufacture 
of a compound designed to remove from the body all mercurial 
and syphilitic taints. He gave this remedy the name of " Dr. 
Easterly's Iodine and Sarsaparilla," and so effectual has it 
been found that the regular profession not unfrequently pre- 
scribe it. The ravages of the Fever and Ague being generally 
prevalent throughout the West, the Dr. next prepared a com- 
pound for its cure, which he called " Dr. Easterly's Fever and 
Ague Killer," and has the proud satisfaction of knowing 
that thousands have been relieved, and that it has failed in no 
case where the directions were followed. The prevalence of 
diseases among females, arising from difficult and painful men- 
struation, caused the Dr. to issue " Dr. Hooper's Female Cor- 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 263 

dial." Here again the most signal success crowned his efforts. 
Diseases which had baffled the skill of physicians yielded readily 
to the influence of a single bottle. The next triumph of our 
friend was his preparation known as " Dr. Baker's Specific," 
a medicine which acquired a deservedly popular and wide- 
spread reputation for the cure of seminal weakness and all dis- 
eases resulting from self-abuse in early age. 

Besides these preparations, which are invaluable as remedies 
for the specific diseases for which they are recommended, the 
Dr. has given the world the benefit of his knowledge by the 
production of Dr. Easterly's Pain Killer, Worsdell's Vegetable 
Pills, Dr. Easterly's Vermifuge, Dr. Easterly's Diarrhoea Sy- 
rup, Dr. Cook's Magic Hair Oil, Dr. Carter's Cough Balsam, 
Dr. Hunter's German Bitters, Dr. Sander's Three Minute Salve, 
Dr. Easterly's American Oil Liniment, Dr. Allen's Rheumatic 
Balm, and Gridley's Salt-Rheum and Tetter Ointment. Dr. 
Easterly also keeps on hand an assortment of all the popular 
medicines of the day, which he is offering to dealers on aston- 
ishingly moderate terms, at his Medical Depot, south-east cor- 
ner of Third and Chesnut streets. 

We would further state that Dr. Easterly's Medicines are now 
standard remedies, universally approved, selling rapidly, and 
can be found in nearly every drug and apothecary store in the 
Western and Southern States. 



ST. LOUIS PATENT PRESS OIL WORKS. 

WYMAN, GRANT & CO., Proprietors. 

We paid a visit to the St. Louis Patent Press Oil Works, 
Wyman, Grant & Co., proprietors — a mill erected for the man- 
ufacture of oil from flax seed, castor beans and cotton seed. 



264 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

The great scarcity of the two former has induced the proprie- 
tors to turn their attention to cotton seed, upon which they have 
most successfully experimented, and are at the present time 
turning out large quantities of the oil, for which there is a con- 
stant and augmenting demand. 

These Works stand upon the corner of Columbia and Second 
streets. The buildings are new, three stories high, with fine 
cellar, boiler-house and coal vault below the street. The size 
of the lot upon which the mill and warehouse stand is 152 feet 
front by 90 feet deep. The foundation was laid in October, 

1855. The mill went into operation during the summer of 

1856. The structure was erected by E. Greenleaf, architect. 
The walls are heavy ; the floors are composed of brick and 
iron ; the columns, joist, beams, roof, windows and doors are 
iron ; the whole being a remarkably substantial and strictly fire- 
proof building — not a particle of wood entering into the archi- 
tecture of the establishment, and nowhere could fire secure a 
hold. 

The oil vats of this mill are capable of containing 30,000 
gallons, and are substantially made of iron ; the machinery is 
probably not equalled by that of any oil mill in the world. The 
presses, which are an invention of Mr. Latourette, are certain- 
ly the most massive machinery we have ever seen, weighing 
some forty tons, and are capable of exerting a pressure of 
eighteen hundred tons on the substance pressed in them, with- 
out hazard of breakage. The simplicity of these machines and 
the rapidity with which they are worked are surprising. The 
oil is expressed in a remarkably short space of time. We saw a 
flood of it issuing in a hundred and thirty- two streams from 
the press, under the amazing power of the machines. It is es- 
timated and claimed by the inventor that they will press out 
12J per cent, more oil than any other machines, with 2£ per 



SKETCH BOOK OF 6T. LOUIS. 265 

cent, less labor. The machinery throughout is fine, and capa- 
ble of turning out ten or twelve thousand dollars worth of oil 
and cake per week. There has been the most striking econo- 
my of room observed in the arrangement of this machinery. It 
is as compactly placed as the works of a clock, convenient, ac- 
cessible and easily managed. 

Though originally designed for the exclusive manufacture of 
linseed and castor oil, these Works have been employed for 
some months, as we mentioned above, in making cotton seed 
oil, which is found so far profitable as to induce the proprietors 
to push their efforts in that direction, believing that it pays bet- 
ter than either linseed or castor beans. They do not, however, 
relinquish the manufacture of the two latter, but propose pros- 
ecuting it to the fullest extent that the supply of seed and 
beans will allow. The proprietors are among the first parties 
in the world who so far succeeded in makiDg oil from cotton 
seed so as to make it pay. After working over 1000 tons of 
the seed, they have found so fine a margin in it as to induce 
them to extend their operations. The coming year they expect 
to work 6000 tons. During the last twenty-five years, in va- 
rious parts of the South efforts have been made and large sums 
expended to make the business profitable ; but, owing to the pe- 
culiar character of the seed, aDd the difficulties of working it, it 
has never, until recently, been made to pay. But with the ad- 
vantages employed by the works we are describing, on account 
of the peculiarity and superiority of their presses, the proprie- 
tors have succeeded in making it a remunerating and success- 
ful business. 

A mill of this kind furnishes a market for seed hitherto 
deemed useful only for manure, and gives at once a marketa- 
ble value to an article that for scores of years has been suffered 
to rot upon the plantations of the South. 
12 



266 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

The Works of Messrs. Wyman, Grant & Co. employ about 
twenty-five hands steadily ; the machinery runs night and day, 
from one o'clock Monday moring till eleven o'clock Saturday 
night. The amount of capital invested rises above $150,000. 



T. S. ROGERS. R. R. M'CORMACK. 

ROGERS & M'CORMACK, 

Wholesale and Retail Dealers in Carpets, Oil Cloths, Mat- 
tings, Rugs, Window Shades, Sfc, Sec. 

(OVER TJBSDELL, PIERSON & CO 'S DRY GOODS STORE,) 
Corner of Vine, St. Charles and Fourth streets, entrance on Vine and St. Charles. 

During one of our rambles about the Mound City, a short 
time since, we visited the establishment of Messrs. Rogers & 
M'Cormack, who occupy the magnificent Hall over Messrs. 
Ubsdell, Pierson & Co's. dry goods store, and was astonished at 
its extent and capacity. This i3 truly one of the mammoth 
concerns of our city. The sales -room occupied by this enter- 
prising firm extends back from Fourth street one hundred and 
sixty-five feet, with a width of forty-five feet, and having a 
height of sixteen feet in the clear. 

There is not (we venture to say, without fear of contradic- 
tion) in the United States a store more finely arranged or bet- 
ter adapted to the business. It is elegantly lighted (which to 
persons desirous of purchasing is a very important considera- 
tion in selecting gods) by twenty- five windows, having the su- 
perior advantage of streets on three sides ; customers thus 
being enabled to examine goods in any light they may desire. 

Although, in regard to the length of time which has elapsed 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 267 

since this establishment first commenced business, most others 
are far in advance of it, yet in point of elegance, extent, and 
excellence, it ranks among the first in the city, and we may 
with propriety say, in the world. One of the firm has for a 
number of years been engaged in the business in the East, and 
for some time connected with one of the largest importing 
houses in Boston, thus securing to them superior advantages in 
the purchasing of their goods. 

Here, at all times, may be found one of the largest and best 
selected stock of goods in their line ever looked upon. Stran- 
gers visiting the city can not better spend a short time than in 
looking through this establishment. They will at all times 
meet with courteous, polite and attentive salesmen to wait upon 
and show them through the establishment. Those intending to 
purchase, will not fail to examine the stock before closing pur- 
chases elsewhere. 

Here they will find all the different styles and varieties of 
goods in the market, from the commonest Rag to the finest 
Willton and Medallion Velvet Carpets ; from the commonest 
Brush Mat to the most elegant and expensive Mosaic Rug ; 
from the lowest grade of American Oil Cloths to the finest En- 
glish and Russian goods ; from the cheapest Muslin Shade to 
the most costly and chaste Velvet and Gold. 

This house was opened to the public the first day of October, 
1857, and from the commencement has done a business that 
has far exceeded the most sanguine hopes of the proprietors. 
The gentlemanly bearing and manner of Messrs. Rogers & 
M'Cormack has contributed not a little to the success that has 
attended their efforts. 

We would invite all persons to visit this establishment, either 
strangers or citizens, as it is one which reflects honor upon St. 
Louis, and of which we feel justly proud. Such enterprising 



268 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUig. 

gentlemen as Messrs. Rogers & M'Cormack merit a large share 
of public patronage, and they get it. May they never grow 
less ! 



DR. E. W. SHERMAN'S 
Truss, Bandage and Orthopedic Instrument Manufactory , 

No. 87 North Fourth Street. 

The gentleman at the head of thi3 establishment has had 
a practical experience of thirty years, and enjoys a world-wide 
reputation as a successful manufacturer of Trusses, Shoulder 
Braces, Abdominal Supporters, Suspensory Bandages, Sup- 
porter Trusses, etc., etc. He has now in his possession & 
number of medals received as premiums from the different Fairs 
where he has exhibited articles of his manufacture. 

That Ruptures are curable, has been successfully demon- 
strated by Dr. Sherman, who can mention hundreds that have 
received permanent relief from the use of his First Premium 
Trusses, a trial of which will convince any one of their supe- 
riority, and the eminent benefit to be derived from their use. 
This Truss has elicited the highest commendations from leading 
eminent surgeons in the United States, and is guarantied to 
answer wherever all others have failed, and where directions are 
followed, will, without doubt, effect a radical cure. 

Dr. Sherman is also sole agent for Dr. S. S. Fitch's cele- 
brated Abdominal Supporters, &c, a full assortment of which are 
kept constantly on hand for the purpose of meeting the demands 
that are constantly being made upon him. Dr. S. gives par- 
ticular attention to supplying the demands of country and retail 
dealers, whose orders he is capable of executing upon far bet- 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 269 

ter terms than any other house in the city, as he is the only one 
engaged in the manufacture, and supplies the wants of all 
other dealers in the city. Do not neglect to call upon Dr. E. 
W. Sherman, at No. 87 Fourth street, between Olive and Lo- 
cust streets, when you want any thing in his line. 

Orthopedic Instruments made to order, and warranted to give 
entire satisfaction. 



FURNITURE FACTORY. 

We now propose to direct the attention of the reader to the 
extensive Furniture Manufactory of Mr. C. Marlow, which we 
can say, without fear of successful contradiction, is the largest 
and best arranged factory in the world. We know that this 
may appear as boasting, but we are fully satisfied that an ex- 
amination into the premises will sustain all we say. Under the 
guidance of Mr. Marlow we spent an hour or two in looking 
over the establishment. 

We found the building situated on Main and Jefferson streets, 
pointing towards the river and having a magnificent view of the 
passing steamers, the hills in the distance on the Illinois shore, 
and the arriving cars upon the opposite coast. The house is 
large and airily built, being 60 feet wide by 150 feet long, and 
is five stories high. Each story is especially adapted for the 
end in view, and is furnished with every thing that can in any 
way assist in the execution of work. There are none of the 
modern labor- facilitating inventions of known utility but have 
a place in Mr. Marlow's rooms. 

The first floor is devoted to turning- lathes, of which we find 
twenty-five in constant operation engaged in turning the posts 
used in the manufacture of bedsteads, stands and tables. The 



270 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

second story is devoted to putting the work together. We also 
find five planing machines engaged in dressing lumber, and two 
morticing machines engaged in morticing the posts. In the 
third story is another large lot of machinery: three whip-saw 
machines for the purpose of sawing curves and circles were 
among the curiosities we observed. The entire machinery is 
run by the power derived from a steam engine which is situated 
in the engine room. The engine, which is fifty horse power, is 
the finest one in the United States, and was manufactured at 
the worbs of Gerard B. Allen. If Mr. Allen never does an- 
other job of work, this engine would stamp him as one of the 
finest mechanics in the world, and act as a standing advertise* 
ment of his ability. 

The fourth story of this magnificent building is designed for 
the bureau manufactory, while the fifth story is designed as a 
varnishing room, where all the furniture of the house comes to 
receive the finishing touch. Over the engine is the drying room, 
which is constantly kept at a temperature of 140 degrees for 
the purpose of drying lumber, and directly above this is the 
veneering room, which is arranged in the most perfect style. 
The entire building is heated by steam, which is made to pass 
through the heating apparatus after it has been used in driving 
the engine. 

Mr. Marlow is able to turn out annually about twenty- six 
thousand bedsteads, while one hundred bureaus per week is the 
average. The tables, stands, lounges, etc., are almost beyond 
computation. When you take into consideration the fact that 
so many labor-facilitating machines are used and there are em- 
ployed about two hundred journeymen, whose chief business 
consists in putting together the work, some idea of the extent 
and magnitude of the establishment may be obtained. 

In the branch of business entered upon by Mr. Marlow, fa- 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 271 

cilities and means are abundant. The boundless supply and 
qualities of timber at hand, located in the centre of the Great 
West, and of easy access to all the trade of the Mississippi 
Valley — all these render his position invaluable. 

The history of Mr. Marlow's efforts since he has been engaged 
in St. Louis would prove interesting, and we only regret that we 
are unable to furnish the reader with it, for it is to such men as 
him that St. Louis owes the proud position she now holds among 
the cities of the earth. Commencing business in St. Louis in 
1834, he has for a quarter of a century been intimately con- 
nected with all the growth and progress of the city. From the 
small germ established a quarter of a century ago, he has the 
proud satisfaction of having the best and one of the largest 
establishments of the kind in the world — rearing its head in 
proud beauty among the great enterprises of the day. 

But because Mr. Marlow has achieved great success in life, 
one must not imagine his path has not been beset with many 
rough places. Fire has twice destroyed his establishment, but 
only for the purpose of seeing it, phoenix-like, rise from the 
ashes in renewed splendor. The last time Mr. Marlow was 
burned out was on the 21st of July, 1857, from the effects of 
which he is just recovering. 

Mr. Marlow's warerooms are on Washington Avenue, and 
occupy one entire block of buildings five stories high, fifty feet 
front by a depth of one hundred and fifty feet, besides a build- 
ing upon the opposite side of the street. The business depart- 
ment is under the supervision of Mr. M. himself and his three 
sons, and their time is equally divided between the office and 
factory, for not a day passes without a visit being made to the 
latter. The working departments are governed by two foremen, 
whose duty it is to engage the workmen and give their personal 
supervision to all the affairs of the shop, giving work and orders 



272 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

to the various employees, while they render an account to Mr. 
Marlow of: all transactions and receive from him their orders. 
The clock-like regularity with which all things are conducted 
would surprise one unaccustomed to the system to which the 
business arrangements have been reduced. 

In regard to the quality of the products of Mr. Marlow's 
manufactory there can be but one opinion, and that, one of un- 
qualified approbation. Having the very best material, and hav- 
ing the work executed in the very best style, it would be a mat- 
ter of surprise if he should fail to render the most complete 
satisfaction. Mr. Marlow is enabled to furnish the trade with 
his wares upon far more favorable terms than the same class of 
goods can be procured in Cincinnati, and we recommend all 
who desire to purchase furniture to give him a call before they 
complete their purchases. 



TICKNOR, BOBBINS & CO., 

Dealers in Fine Ready-Made Clothing, and Gentlemen' 's 
Furnishing Goods. Also, agents for Winches- 
ters Patent Shirts, fyc., 4*c, <S*c. 

No. 176 North Main Street. 

The business location of Messrs. Ticknor, Robbins & Co., 
No. 176 North Main Street, four doors south of the Vir- 
ginia Hotel. The position occupied by this house entitles it to 
special attention from our hands. There are but few houses 
engaged in the sale of: ready made clothing and gentlemen's 
furnishing goods that are equal to this one, and we are confident 
that there are none more extensive or possessed of greater 
facilities for accommodating the demands of the trade. Their 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 273 

manufactory is located in New York city, and the branch 
here is but an emporium for the sale of ready made goods, of- 
fering an opportunity to the citizens of St. Louis of obtaining 
a fine quality of wearing apparel at New York prices; The 
style of goods kept constantly on hand by Messrs. Ticknor, 
Robbins & Co., is of the very latest Parisian fashion as well as 
of the best quality of goods ; the material having been selected 
and the garments manufactured under the immediate personal 
supervision of the members of the firm, they warrant every 
article to be perfect in every respect. 

Notwithstanding the tightness of the money market and the 
consequent hunting up of old clothes, this house during the past 
season did a business that largely exceeded their most san- 
guine expectations — evidencing the fact that all men who are 
willing to sell for a fair profit can always do well. Their un- 
precedented success is but the natural result of energy, enter- 
prise, and a determination to please all who may call upon them. 
Their motto is "live and let live — quick sales and small pro- 
fits," and by a strict adherence to the principle inculcated, have 
gained the approbation of every one. 

They have also a large and splendid assortment of gent's fur- 
nishing goods, consisting of the latest fashions, which are sold 
at prices so low as to astonish those who are not posted up in 
regard to the immense profits which have hitherto been reaped by 
the dealers in this branch of trade. Besides having on hand 
every variety of shirts, as well as shirts of every quality, 
Messrs. Ticknor, Robbins & Co. are the sole agents for Win- 
chester's celebrated Patent Shirt. We would say to all who are 
in need of good, durable clothing, call and examine their well 
selected stock. The courteous gentlemen of this house are 
ever willing to exhibit their goods to all who may favor them 
with a call. 
12* 



274 SKETCn BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

This firm consists of M. Ticknor, E. Ticknor and C. B. 
Robbins. These gentlemen are in every way well adapted to 
their business, and calculated to bo successful in their intercourse 
with western people. 

This house was opened in March, 1867, since which time it 
has pursued a course that has gained for it an unlimited patron- 
age. It has already reaped the reward of its labors, and we 
know of none that more richly merits the patronage of the 
public. It is now one of the " first institutions'* of the 
Mound City. 

To those country merchants who are willing to pay cash for 
their supplies, Messrs. Ticknor, Robinson & Co. offer great in- 
ducements. They do a strictly cash business, selling on time 
to no one, but by a strict adherence to this rule they are enabled 
to sell goods from thirty to forty per cent, cheaper than tho 
same class of goods have sold for heretofore. 



SCARRITT & MASON, 

Wholesale $? Retail Furniture Eslablish?ne?it, 

Washington dvenue, between Second and Third Streets. 

The Wholesale and Retail Furniture Establishment of Messrs. 
Scarritt & Mason is situated on Washington avenue, between 
Second and Third streets, and forms one of the " Institutions" 
of the Mound City — so much so as to require from our hands a 
more than passing notice. This house stands forth as a lasting 
monument to the enterprise and business tact of its proprietors, 
an honor to the city, and a subject of pride to every true son of 
St. Louis. Always evidencing a desire to meet in a becoming 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 275 

spirit the wants of the community for which they cater, they 
have won the 6teem and confidence of our citizens, as is am- 
ply shown by the success that has attended their efforts. 
Prompt in all their dealings, they passed through the financial 
difficulties of last year with success, and are now ready to meet 
all demands that will be made upon them with promptness. 

Commencing business in St. Louis in 1846, in what was 
known as the "Old Walnut-St. shed," they laid the foundation 
f or their present gigantic establishment. A short time in that 
location served to convince them that they had not near enough 
sea room, so they moved into what was then known as the "old 
post office building," occupying the site upon which the present 
post office is situated. Their business still continuing to in- 
crease, they removed to the Planter's Tobacco Warehouse, whero 
their business reputation continued to increase until 1850, 
when that building was burned to the ground, causing the loss 
of their entire stock. This was a sad blow to our friends, but 
their prudence in making insurance secured them against ruin- 
ous loss. Men of less energy or enterprise might have seated 
themselves upon the ruins, utterly discouraged, but they were 
equal to the emergency. Phcenix-like, they rose from the ashes 
and came again into the field, with shoulders to the wheel and 
hearts buoyant, determined to conquer ; with them the French 
cardinal's motto was a truth, and " No such word as fail" was 
the watchword they adopted. The building they are now occu- 
pying was erected expressly for their use. It has a depth of 
one hundred and fifty feet, with a front of fifty feet, and is four 
stories high. To this they removed in the summer of 1850, 
and if we may know a tree by its fruit, their present extensive 
trade and large public confidence is a sufficient evidence of the 
merits of their house. 

Messrs. Scarritt & Mason were the first gentlemen in this 



276 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

city who made the Furniture business largely mercantile, as 
well as manufacturing. These gentlemen adopted a plan which 
has since grown into extensive favor in the West and South ; 
it was the buying from every market and manufacturer that pro- 
duced the best styles of workmanship, p ; so that they brought into 
their warehouse the improvements and perfection of all other 
markets as well as their own manufactures, and were p able to 
offer, as it were, the cream of the cream^of all markets in their 
line. Their long and familiar acquaintance with the most re- 
liable manufacturers throughout the country now enables them 
to reap great advantages from this feature of their business, and 
present great inducements to their customers in g the style, dura- 
bility and variety of their stock. 

A visit to this establishment will well repay the cost, and 
those in want of anything in the line of furniture, mattresses, 
&c, may doubtless suit themselves, and will be sure of fair 
dealing. 



SHEFFIELD STEEL WAREHOUSE. 

H. BAKEWELL, Agent. 

Comer of Main and Morgan Streets. 

This house was established in the year 1849, for the sale of 
Messrs. Wm. Jessop & Son's Steel, and is the only house west 
of the mountains where a full assortment of steel is kept on 
hand. The supply consists of the best cast steel, in sheets and 
bar3 ; machinery ; cast steel, shear, German, blister, spring, 
plow, &c. 

Messrs. Jessop & Son are the largest manufacturers of steel 



SKETCH BOOK OF 6T. LOUIS. 277 

in the world, and have always made it a point of honor to sell 
as cheap and upon as good terms as any other house, where 
quality is a consideration. By persevering in a straight-for- 
ward, honorable and upright course in all business transactions, 
and in selling the various kinds of steel for only just what it 
really is — first, second or third quality, as it maybe — and in all 
cases warranting the metal to be exactly what they represent, 
they have gained in the West a name as honorable and conscien- 
tious manufacturers, which reflects much credit upon them, 
and which they obtained long since in the Eastern States and 
England by manufacturing and keeping for sale the most uni- 
form and best steel. 

All kinds of steel will be imported to order from England upon 
lower rates than farm stock, and laid down in any seaport 
town, or delivered at any point on the river, according to in- 
structions. They also keep constantly on hand a complete as- 
sortment of Sheffield cast steel files, of the very best quality, at 
the manufacturers' prices. 

This house imports about forty thousand dollars worth of 
steel per annum for the saw manufactory of Messrs. Branch, 
Crookes & Co., who prefer it to any other they can obtain. 

All orders addressed to H. Bakewell, St. Louis, will receive 
prompt attention. 



F. & F. D. CLARK'S WAREROOM 

Of Superior Counting Room and Cabinet Furniture, 

No. 112 Market Street. 

There is not in St. Louis a more attractive house to those 
persons who are fond of admiring articles of usefulness and 



278 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

beauty than that of Messrs. Clark. The business in which they 
are engaged seems to be a speciality with them. Mr. Jona- 
than Clark, the father of F. & F. D., established him- 
self in New York city upwards of a quarter of a century ago, 
and has since gained the highest round in the ladder of fame 
by the masterly productions of his manufactory. The speci- 
mens of counting-house furniture exhibited by Mr. C. at 
the World's Fair, held in New York in 1852, obtained the 
gold medal. 

The eminent success that attended the efforts of Mr. J. Clark 
having given him control of a large capital, he concluded to 
establish a branch in some one of the Western cities ; after 
paying them all a visit, he concluded that St. Louis was the 
best point, and accordingly opened here about three years ago, 
the charge of the house being given to F. & F. D. Clark, two 
of his sons, who possess fine business capacities and have won 
hosts of friends since their sojourn in the Mound City. 
. The stock of counting-house and cabinet furniture kept on 
hand by Messrs. Clark can not be surpassed in the world, and 
we believe that they can sell upon as favorable terms as any 
other house in the United States — we know that they can not be 
undersold in this city. We cordially recommend these gentle- 
men to the favorable consideration of those wishing to purchase 
fine furniture, as eminently worthy of confidence, respect and 
patronage from our citizens. 



Messrs. Ticknor, Robbins & Co. have made arrangements 
by which they can furnish clothing to order on the shortest pos- 
sible notice. They have secured the services of a number of 
excellent journeymen tailors, cutters, etc. Don't fail to call 
at No. 176 North Main street, when you want to leave your 
measure for a suit. 



SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 279 

THE GREAT WESTERN MACHINERY WAREHOUSE. 

M. G. MOIES, Proprietor. 

No. 16 Main Street. 

The Machinery Warehouse of M. G. Moies is situated at 
No. 1G Main street, and is the largest depository of machinery 
in the United States ; it is one of the most interesting places in 
the Mound City. 

A short time since we went all through this establishment and 
was much pleased and not a little astonished at the extent and 
magnitude of the selection of the different kinds of machinery. 
We desire to mention some of the articles that attracted our 
attention. We will commence in the cellar and ascend upwards 
through five floors that are full of different kinds of machinery. 

First we found a large lot of portable corn and flouring 
mills, made by different inventors ; wo noticed Harrison's, 
Strant's Queen of the South, Noyes', and several other kinds, 
all of which have a favorable reputation throughout the West 
and South, and need no eulogy from us ; from what we saw we 
should think that every farmer could have a mill at his own 
door, to grind his own flour or meal, at a very small investment. 

On the first floor we found a large assortment of portable and 
stationery engines, calculated to save the labor of the planter or 
farmer at his own door, and a larger class designed for 
manufactories of any magnitude. 

On ascending to the second floor, we came to what might be 
properly called a sample or store-room. Here we found every 
species of fixtures and trimmings for rigging out flouring and 
saw mills, machine ehops, railroad cars, belting, hose, brass 



280 SKETCH liOOli OF ST. LOUIS. 

cocks of every kind, lantern bead lights, nuts, washers, files, 
all kinds of rivets, &c, &c. 

On the third floor were a large variety of machinists' tools, 
such as lathes, drills, iron planes — also every kind of labor- 
saving machines for the working of iron. 

On the fourth floor, we found every variety of wood-working 
tools that genius conld suggest, such as morticing, tenanting, 
matching, sticking, boring, turning, and in fact all kinds of 
machines that are needed for working wood. On this floor can 
be found a machine to do every thing to wood that man can do, 
but to cut the tree down and put the pieces together after it is 
manufactured. 

In passing to the fifth floor, we were introduced into the de- 
partment that is reserved for pumps and other articles. Here 
we found every variety of pump that is of any account — the 
rotary, the suction, the force, the steam, horizontal, vertical, and 
a great variety of sizes and shapes, so that the purchaser can 
suit himself as to quality, kind or price. 

While in the different departments we had our attention called 
to several new machines lately introduced for saving labor ; 
there were so many that we can not name them all, but we 
noticed a machine that does the work of about forty men, for 
splitting and shaving hoops. It takes the hoop in its rough 
state, and splits and shaves it much better than can be done by 
hand, and there is little or no waste compared with the hand 
manufacture of hoops. We also had our attention called to a 
blind-slat machine ; the rough board or slat is put into the ma- 
chine, and when it comes out it is planed on both sides and 
edges, ready for the blind. We also saw a blind morticing ma- 
chine, which was a very ingenious and good invention. We 
could mention several others, but would say to those who are 
interested, go and see for yourselves. 



SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 281 

To those who want good machinery of any kind, or any 
who are fond of viewing machinery, we could not direct them to 
any place of more interest than the ware-rooms of M. G.UVloies. 
We were struck with one peculiar and great advantage the pur- 
chaser would have in getting his machinery at such an establish- 
ment. For instance, if he wished to purchase an engine, he 
could get all his fixtures with it, and save the trouble of making 
bills at different places. A person can go into M. G. Moies' 
office and make his trade for a flouring mill, saw mill, machine 
shop, planing mill, sash and blind manufactory, or any kind of 
machinery and trimmings for manufacturing purposes. 

To the manufacturer and farmer it possesses attractions of a 
superior character, and which should not be overlooked by those 
who visit this city for the purpose of making purchases. 

Persons visiting this house will find Mr. Moies and his at- 
tendants always ready and willing to show up and explain the 
merits of the different kinds of machinery, and they will be 
charmed with the systematic order with which all business is 
transacted, and we can assure our friends that no better terms 
can be procured anywhere than at this establishment. Mr. 
Moies' thorough knowledge of machinery, his extensive acquaint- 
ance with the different manufacturers, and being largely in- 
terested in the manufactory himself, enable him to sell upon as 
favorable terms as can be bough in the United States. 

We can confidently recommend this establishment to the fa- 
vorable consideration of the public, as worthy of the highest 
degree of confidence. 



282 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

WHEELER & WILSON'S INCOMPARABLE SEWING 
MACHINES. 

No. 79 North Fourth Street. 
JAS. W. McDONALD, Agent for the West. 

One of the greatest triumphs of American genius during the 
present generation has been the sewing machine ; indeed it may 
be considered the most important invention of this great age, 
for it is the first discovery yet made to lighten the labors and 
remove the drudgery of the softer sex. It is an invaluable con- 
tribution to the wealth of the nation, It is as an angel from 
Heaven to our mothers, wives, sisters and daughters, and as a 
labor-saving instrument stands unrivalled. Its inventors may 
claim a place in the front rank of: the benefactors of their race, 
and their names will go down to posterity in company with the 
illustrious giants who have immortalized this great age of gold, 
iron and steam ; nor will the meed of praise be withdrawn from 
those who have by their time, means and talents so successfully 
brought these machines into public use in various parts of the 
world, but especially in our own land. 

In May, 1854, Mr. James W. McDonald established the 
first depot for the sale of sewing machines West of the Missis- 
sipi, on Fourth street, in this city. The first two years the 
business was expensive and arduous, not paying expenses, but 
during the last two years upwards of three hundred of the 
Wheeler & Wilson machines have actually been sold, and are 
now doing good service in this city and vicinity. 

The merits of these machines may be summed up as follows : 

1st. Cheapness, durability and absence of friction. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 283 

2d. Its noiseless operation. Instead of the clumsy, lumber- 
ing din which accompanies other machines, this performs its 
labor with no more disturbance than the ticking of a clock. 

3d. Its freedom from derangement. No machinist is re- 
quired to watch over and keep it in order ; constant and vexa- 
tious expense for repairs is avoided, while any person of com- 
mon ability can learn its use. 

4th. Its neatness. Such is its construction that no soil or 
stain comes upon the material upon which it works ; silks, 
satins, or cambrics, of the finest quality or most delicate color, 
are not subject to the slightest spot. 

5th. Its ?-iappy adaptation to all kinds, especially all the finer 
kinds, of sewing — being made with view to that purpose — a 
point in which other machines have signally failed. 

6th. The durability of its work. The stitch is such that rav- 
elling is impossible, and ripping is no more to be apprehended 
than in ordinary handwork. 

7th. The extreme ease of its use — requiring so little power 
that its exercise would scarcely fatigue a child. 

8th. The beauty and simplicity of its performance. These 
qualities alone have often attracted the attention of persons of 
taste, who subsequently purchased on learning that its beauty 
was equalled by its ability. 

9th. The simplicity of its construction. 

10th. The ease with which it is kept in order. 

11th. It ha3 two useful gauges which no other machines have. 

12th. It has a hemming attachment, which hems and folds 
garments, which no other machines have. 

13th. It has also a binding attachment. 

14th. The process of rewinding the thread is one of the great 
advantages of this machine, and a complete triumph over all 
other machines. 



284 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

15th. It has no complicated devices for regulating the tension 
of the thread as other machines have. 

16th. There are hundreds of these machines that have run 
twelve hundred days (four years) and are as good as when 
started. There is one at Mrs. Smith's, on Market street, 
which has been worked over one thousand days. They will wear 
a life time, twenty to thirty years. 

17th. They will prevent that ill health and premature decay 
consequent upon sedentary habits and continual sewing with the 
common needle. 

18th. They save that time which ladies require for their own 
intellectual pleasures and the education of their children. 

19th. A family cannot make a better investment than to buy 
a Sewing Machine. 

20th. They will always sell for nearly as much as they cost, 
and will not depreciate in value. 

21st. There is no other piece of machinery at near the price 
that will do the same amount of work with the same power and 
expense. 

22d. The Patents have nine years to run yet, and in that 
time no reduction of price can be made ; it is impossible. Buy 
at once if you wish to save time, work and money. 

It has always been the fate of great ideas to meet with vio- 
lent persecution on their first presentation to the world. Who 
has not heard of the sufferings endured by Galileo, for uttering 
what are now known as the commonest truths of astronomy ? 
When Hervey announced the circulation of the blood, Europe 
greeted his assertion with a storm of laughter. The people ful- 
minated their thunders in the last century against vaccination 
for the small- pox ; the law of gravitation has been honored 
with the name of humbug — while the steamboat and the tele- 
graph have been solemnly voted to be fantastic dreams. Can 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 285 

it be wondered at that the Sewing Machine, which acts with a 
precision that almost rivals human intelligence, should be met 
with similar incredulity ? It has, and, like them, its triumph is 
inevitable. 

It is not our purpose to emulate the venders of patent nos- 
trums, and puff the Sewing Machine into a little clap -trap noto- 
riety ; it rests on its own merits ; it has passed the ordeal of 
the most rigid scrutiny ; examination only precedes conviction, 
and the universal favor accorded to it attests its infinite supe- 
riority. 

The time has already arrived when garments are constructed 
as if by magic, and those frightful quantities of sewing which 
required the labor of weeks, now only requires but a few hours 
of pleasant occupation. At no distant day Sewing Machines 
will be in every family in the land, and no lady's education can 
be complete without understanding the Sewing Machine, and no 
young lady should ever think of embarking upon the wavy and 
uncertain sea of matrimony without first acquiring an intimate 
knowledge of Wheeler & Wilson's Sewing Machine. 

Principal office, 343 Broadway, New York; Western Agency, 
79 Fourth street, St. Louis. 



COOK & MATTHEWS, 

DYERS AND SCOURERS OF SILK AND WOOLEN GOODS, 

Have the most extensive establishment in the West, and proba- 
bly in the United States. They are located at Nos. 92, 94 and 
96 Pine street, between Third and Fourth streets, directly op- 
posite the St. Louis Theatre. 

These gentlemen commenced business in 1849 upon a small 



286 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

scale, but soon attracted the attention of the public by the sat- 
isfactory manner in which they executed all orders given them, 
and their business became so pressing as to induce them to ex- 
tend their facilities in order to enable them to answer all de- 
mands. Still war was waged against them, and last fall they 
made another enlargement of their business room, which they 
predicted would answer for at least five years. But man's 
hopes and expectations are often fallacious. Scarce three 
months had passed before they found their house too small. 
Again was enlargement the order of the day, and they have 
just finished a splendid addition — No. 92 — which is designed 
for the accommodation of the ladies. This apartment is fitted 
up with exquisite taste — having a splendid Brussels carpet upon 
the floor, the walls covered with beautiful paintings and engrav- 
ings, and all the appointments, in the most perfect style. This 
department is under the control of Mr. Matthews, who is one of 
the most courteous and obliging men in the city, and possesses 
the esteem and confidence of every one who has the pleasure of 
knowing him. 

Messrs. Cook & Matthews rejuvenate, renew, recolor and re- 
pair every article of gentlemen's and ladies' wearing apparel, 
and even after they have become "seedy" and appear to be 
worn out and useless, they will dress them up and give them the 
gloss and finish of new articles. All the work which these 
gentlemen perform is warranted to give full and complete satis- 
faction ; and what is of no little consideration to the customer, 
their charges are as moderate as any one could desire. 

Messrs. Cook & Matthews have also connected with their es- 
tablishment a Steam Dyeing Apparatus, by which means they 
dye and dress soiled and shop-worn Silks, Satins, Shawls, &c. 
We have examined many of their specimens and have no hesi- 
tation in pronouncing them superior to any thing of the kind 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 287 

executed in any of our rival cities. These gentlemen pay par- 
ticular attention to the re-coloring of goods for dealers whose 
stock has become damaged by age or other causes. They have 
recently erected a brimstone vat for the purpose of bleaching 
Crape Shawls, Laces, &c, and we would recommend our mer- 
cantile friends who have goods on hand that have become a 
drug, to send them to this firm for renovation. The remarka- 
ble skill exhibited in the successful adaptation of chemical 
methods for the renovation and coloring of soiled apparel has 
rendered them famed throughout the West. They employ con- 
stantly about thirty hands — sometimes greatly increasing this 
force — and are always ready to execute orders with the utmost 
dispatch. Mr. Cook has charge of the dyeing department, and 
a more thorough master of the business, or more courteous, ob- 
liging gentleman can not be found ; and we cordially recom- 
mend both him and his partner, Mr. Matthews, to the favorable 
consideration of the reader. 



STEAM BAKERY, 

Joseph Garneau, Proprietor. 

Corner Seventeenth and Morgan streets. 

The Steam Machine Bakery of Joseph Garneau is situate at 
the corner of Seventeenth and Morgan streets, St. Louis, Mo., 
and his office is at No. 9 Commercial street, in the rear of the 
Bank of Missouri. The history of this establishment is well 
worthy of perusal, showing as it does what fair dealing and 
strong determination, coupled with perseverance, will accom- 
plish. Mr. Garneau commenced business in 1839 in St. Louis ; 
he was a poor man, and he labored long and hard to get a start 



288 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

and to meet the wants of his customers, whom he used to serve 
by conveying his bread about town in a little hand-cart, made 
for the purpose. The quality of his Bread and Crackers 
(which by the bye are the best made in the West) soon gained 
for him an extensive custom, and as the city began to expand 
he added to his shop in order to keep pace with the demands 
which he found were being made upon him. The hand-cart 
was laid aside and its place supplied by a more convenient con- 
veyance ; the shop was enlarged, journeymen engaged, and 
the demands met with a promptness commensurate with Mr. 
G.'s abilities. Each year, as the city increased in population, 
found additions made, and all the latest improvements for the 
purpose of rendering his establishment more complete, till at 
the present time it is the largest and most complete Bakery in 
the Western country. Mr. G. employs at the present time 
thirty- five hands, and uses daily forty-five barrels of flour, turn- 
ing out ordinarily two thousand Loaves of Bread and one hun- 
dred and twenty- five barrels of Crackers per day ; he also has 
the machinery so arranged that they saw and split all the wood 
they use at the Bakery by steam. His facilities are such that 
persons giving him an order at any time can have it filled the 
next day, no matter how large ; he also delivers all and every 
thing free of charge to steamboats or railroads, and he guaran- 
ties every thing in his line to give satisfaction or no charge will 
be made. Mr. Garneau invites every person that can give him 
a call to do so, and he will be very happy at all times to show 
them through his large Bakery, and will do it cheerfully and 
sociably. Mr. Garneau is a gentleman and a scholar, and took 
the premium at both of the late Fairs held in St. Louis for 
having the best Crackers on the ground. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 289 

DAGUERREAN AND AMBROTYPE GALLERY. 

J. J. Outley, Proprietor. 
Corner of Third and Washington Avenue, and Cor. Fifth and Locust. 

Mr. Outley has two rooms devoted to the manufacture of 
Pictures, and has met with the most unqualified success at both 
Galleries. He opened his room on the corner of Washington 
avenue and Third street, over No. 138 and 140 Third street, in 
May, 1851, with nothing but a thorough knowledge of the en- 
tire business. He immediately adopted the principle of charg- 
ing a living profit and giving perfect satisfaction to all who 
gave him a call. So completely did he succeed that he soon 
found himself at the head of a large and commodious suit of 
rooms, and a prosperous and steadily increasing business. In 
1857 Mr. Outley purchased the Gallery of Mr. Davis, situated 
at the corner of Fifth and Locust streets, and is now conduct- 
ing both Galleries with success. 

Mr. Outley, for a long series of years, gave his entire time 
and talent to the production of miniatures after the style of 
Daguerre, and succeeded in arriving at a great degree of per- 
fection in the finishing of his work. No better " tone" could 
be imparted to the picture than was given it by Mr. 0., and the 
world owes him many thanks for his contribution to science. 
As the furore for Daguerreotypes began to wane, and the Photo- 
graphs, Ambrotypes, Melaneotypes, etc., to claim the attention 
of the operators, Mr. 0. was one of the first who adopted the 
new style, and by a close study was soon enabled to master the 
art in all its perfection. 

But it is in the execution of Ambrotypes that Outley excels, 
and we venture the assertion that there is not a Gallery in the 
United States where a superior collection of plain or colored 
13 



290 SKETCn BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

Ambrotypes can be found. Possessing in an eminent degree 
all the qualifications necessary to make a successful artist, Mr. 
0. has given his entire attention to the study and pursuit; al- 
ways striving for the superiority, he has won " golden opinions 
from all sorts of people." 

In visiting his gallery a few days ago we were much pleased 
in observing the number of excellent specimens which he has 
displayed ; one that particularly struck us as being of a supe- 
rior character, was a large Hallotype of our respected fellow- 
citizen, Mr. Sol. Smith, the distinguished comedian, manager 
and lawyer. As we gazed upon this work, we imagined that 
we stood face to face with the original, his urbane smile greet- 
ing us, while his winning voice was pouring forth some tale of 
mirth. We saw many other gems, but none that afforded us so 
much real gratification as this one. 

Independent of the Picture Gallery, Mr. Outley has recently 
invested about twenty thousand dollars in the purchase of Da- 
guerrean Stock, with which he is now enabled to fill all orders 
that may be made upon him. He now keeps constantly on hand 
Cameras, Apparatus, Matting, Preservers, Plates, Chemicals, 
Fancy Frames and Cases, Photographic Paper and Chemicals > 
and material of every description for Paper Pictures and Am- 
brotypes ; and will furnish them to those in the trade upon 
terms equally as favorable as can be be obtained elsewhere. 
He also teaches the art of Picture-Making, or gives instruc- 
tion in different branches to those desirous of learning upon 
terms which can not fail to suit the applicant. To those who 
wish to order stock or learn any particulars concerning his 
terms, we recommend them to address Mr. J. J. Outley, and 
he will take pleasure in forwarding them all the desired infor- 
mation. 

Let no one who is an admirer of the beautiful, fail to visit 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 291 

Mr. Outley's Gallery, when they come to St. Louis, as it is 
decidedly one of the institutions of the city. They will find 
him ever ready to render their visit pleasurable ; and should 
you determine to have a shadow of yourself transferred to the 
plate, he will execute it in a style that can not fail to render 
the most perfect and complete satisfaction. jgplemember the 
places — over 138 and 140 Third street, corner of Washington 
avenue, and over Mr. Louis Peter's Fur Store, corner of Fifth 
and Locust streets. 

MRS. BARNHURST, 

FASHIONABLE 

MILLINER AND MANTUA MAKER, 



VARIETY AND FANCY GOODS, 

No. 74 Market street, betiv. Third and Fourth. 

Mrs. Barnhurst is in daily receipt of all the Latest Fashiona- 
ble Millinery Goods from the Eastern markets, and has always 
on hand one of the most complete and varied stocks of French, 
German, English and American Goods ever offered in the West ; 
also the most attractive and extensive lot of Flowers and Rib- 
bons to be found in the city. Having in successful operation 
two of Wheeler & Wilson's Sewing Machines, she is enabled to 
furnish Bonnets, Dresses, Mantillas, Corsets, &c, with the ut- 
most dispatch. All orders from the country will meet with 
prompt attention at No. 7-4 Market street, between Third and 
Fourth. 

We recommend Mrs. B. to the favorable notice of our fair 
readers as a lady of decided taste and promptness, and emi- 
nently worthy of confidence. 



292 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 



H. N. KENDALL & CO 




MANUFACTURERS OF AND DEALERS IN 



BUTTER, SODA, BOSTON, WINE, LEMON, WATER, MILK AND 
GINGER CRACKERS; PILOT BREAD; CRACKNEL BISCUIT; 



AND ALL VARIETIES OF 



BREAD AND CAKES, 

Comer of Sixth and Pine streets. 

This house was established in 1849, in December of which 
year Mr. Kendall established himself in a small way, and laid 
the foundation for his present extensive trade. By attention to 
business and fair and honorable dealings with all his patrons, 
this house has attained a position that will vie with any of their 
competitors. 

The buildings occupied by Messrs. Kendall & Co. are located 
on the corner of Sixth and Pine streets, and were erected by 
Mr. K. for the express purpose for which they are used, and 
combine all the improvements of the age. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 293 

Messrs. K. & Co. employ about thirty hands, and use weekly 
from 150 to 200 barrels of flour, and produce daily from 50 to 
75 barrels of Crackers, 1200 Loaves of Bread, and Cakes and 
Pies innumerable, to meet the demand of their customers. 

If attention to business, fair and honorable dealings with all 
who favor them with their patronage, and the production of all 
articles in their line of a quality unsurpassed in this or any 
other market, entitle a concern to flourish, then this house will 
continue to make articles in their line for consumers in this 
and adjacent States on a still more extended scale. No house 
can furnish the consumer with supplies upon better terms than 
Messrs. K. & Co. ; and as they pay particular attention to the 
orders of merchants, steamboats and families, we would recom- 
mend them to call and test their products. 



WILLIAM M. HARLOW'S 
FURNITURE AND PIANO-FORTE WAREROOMS, 

IN THE CONCERT HALL BUILDING, 
07i the south side of Market street, betw. Second and Third sts., 

We consider among the very first of its kind in the city. Mr. 
Harlow, after acquiring a thorough practical knowledge of his 
business, began his career in St. Louis in February, 1846. In 
February, 1849, he engaged quite largely in manufacturing, 
in which he was very successful until the 12th of June, 1851, 
when his establishment was entirely destroyed by fire, sweeping 
away in a single night the entire accumulations of five years' 
toil and untiring devotion to his business. 

Undaunted by this catastrophe, he at once arranged to resume 



294 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

his business, and on the 7th of November of: that year re- 
opened in a new and much larger building erected on the ruins 
of his former house, and constructed upon his own plan. This 
house is well known throughout the country as well as to all our 
citizens. 

To avoid too great risk in future, Mr. Harlow, this year, 
erected a substantial three story brick building on Broadway, 
near Cass avenue, thus separating his manufactory from his 
warerooms. Here he employed steam power and machinery in 
the manufacture of fine Cabinet Furniture, furnishing many 
steamboats and hotels, and leading the van in this branch of 
his business until the close of the year 1855, when he sold out 
his entire establishment, after having given constant and pro- 
fitable employment to from seventy- five to (at times) one hun- 
dred and" twenty mechanics for a period of nearly seven years. 

Daring this time he had made frequent visits to the Eastern 
cities, buying the most desirable styles as well as best qualities 
of goods in his line to be found in those markets — thus adding 
the mercantile to the manufacturing department of his busi- 
ness. His motto seems always to have been, " The best and 
most desirable articles that can be secured in every department 
of his stock, rather than the lowest- priced and greatest quanti- 
ty of goods ;" though in point of magnitude he has ever been 
equal to the requirements of a large and constant demand. 

His present location on Market street, in Concert Hall build- 
ing, is central and convenient. The building is 100 by 40 feet, 
in a single span, and three stories high. His main sale room 
(Concert Hall) is finely finished and well lighted ; secure from 
the noise and dust of the street, and, in our estimation, the 
pleasantest place in the city to make selections of such goods 
as housekeepers require for their own use. 

We deem it unnecessary to say more of Mr. Harlow or his 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 295 

business. Twelve years of constant devotion have given him a 
character and standing in the community which few have more 
justly earned. 

Good faith and justice seem to be his business principles, as 
they are his practice. To sell what will suit his patrons and 
friends, and nothing else, his constant aim. His assortment of 
Parlor, Dining-room, Library and Chamber Furniture will be 
found of the best quality, as well as the latest styles of their 
kind. 

Piano- fortes, from the best manufacturers in Boston, will 
also be found here at the manufacturer's retail prices. 

Taking it all in all, this is one of the business houses of 
this kind in our city which we feel justified and gratified in 
honoring and recommending. 



JOHN O'MALLEY, 



DEALER IN 



FANCY GOODS, GUNS, PISTOLS, CUTLERY, WATCHES, TOYS, 
JEWELRY, MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS, &c, &c, 

Norlh-wcst comer of Levee and Market street. 

We know of no house in St. Louis where the wants of the 
country merchant or peddler can be supplied upon better terms 
than at the establishment of Mr. John O'Malley. He has his 
arrangements so made with the manufacturers, both in the East 
and Europe, that he is in receipt of all the latest styles of 
goods, which he can sell as cheap as the cheapest ; in fact he 
can undersell the New York houses. We would advise persons 
wishing to purchase goods that are embraced in his catalogue 
to give him a call. Particular attention is given to supplying 
the wants of the retail trade. 



296 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOOTS. 



JOHN J. ANDERSON & CO., 

EXCHANGE AND BANKING HOUSE, 

Comer of Main and Olive Streets. 

John J. Anderson, Esq., a gentleman who has been long a 
resident of St. Louis, may be mentioned as among her most ex- 
tensive men of: business and prominent brokers ; he was for 
some years a merchant, extensively dealing in dry goods until 
the year 1842. 

In 1845 he connected himself with J. S. Morrison, Esq., a 
capitalist of large means, and entered upon a banking and ex- 
change business, under the name of John J. Anderson & Co. The 
business, as conducted chiefly by Mr. Anderson, who was the 
active managing partner, is understood to have grown very rap- 
idly and to have been quite profitable. In 1849 Mr. Morrison 
retired from the firm. The business was continued, constantly 
enlarging, until in its correspondence it embraced all the chief 
commercial points in the Union. There have been years in 
which the exchange bought and sold by this house reached the 
large amount of ten millions. 

In the recent terrific panic through which the country and the 
world have passed, the house bowed for a moment before a 
storm which prostrated so many strong establishments. This 
was only one out of seven of the so considered staunchest pri- 
vate banking houses in St. Loui3 which closed their doors. It 
was not the first to close, but it was the first to re-open. This 
alacrity in resumption is, we presume, accounted for by the 
fact that its assets were generally of a good character ; it is 
well understood, indeed, that the temporary inability to realize 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 297 

from a large amount of these, consisting of dues from the most 
solvent corporations, was the cause of its suspension. The 
payments and settlements the house then made with its creditors 
were, we believe, very acceptable to them. 

Mr. Anderson, though prompt and decisive in his business 
transactions, is liberal and accommodating in all his dealings 
with his business friends and customers, going to the utmost 
extent to serve their interests, so far as he can do it compatibly 
with his own safety. For intelligence, acuteness, and experienco 
as a financier, it is no exaggeration to say of him that he has 
but few superiors. 

With the prospects now opening of a long and undisturbed 
period in the movements of trade and finance, it can not be 
doubted that Mr. Anderson's house will partake largely of the 
prosperity in store for banking establishments that are managed 
with sagacity and skill. 

Among the items of his property, Mr. Anderson owns a lot 
fronting on Third and Olive streets, on which he is now erecting 
a house intended for banking purposes. We allude to it spe- 
cially because of the peculiar elegance and beauty which will 
be imparted to the edifice by the material of which it is being 
constructed. The material is the stone known as " Brandon 
Marble," of Vermont, which takes a lustrous polish, and is of 
remarkable purity, quite equal indeed to the finest Italian 
marble. The employment of this material in the walls of this 
banking-house is the first instance of its use as a building stone 
in St. Louis. The structure will be finished and ornamented in 
a style worthy of this material, and may be expected to give to 
the aspect of the exterior unusual splendor and beauty. 

*13 



298 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 



WHOLESALE AND RETAIL FURNITURE WAREROOM, 

No. 29 North Third Street, between Chesnut and Pine. 
J. H. Cuane, Proprietor. 

This house is one of the most extensive in St. Louis, and is 
doing a large and nourishing business, and bids fair to become 
the leading house in the West. Mr. Crane, the proprietor, al- 
though, comparatively a young man in St. Louis, is an old and 
experienced furniture dealer. For a long series of years, his 
father, Mr. L. M. Crane, was at the head of one of the largest 
houses in the East, at Newark, New Jersey, and is now doing 
an extensive business in Cincinnati, Ohio. The warerooms of 
Mr. Crane now occupy eighty feet front on Third street with a 
depth of one hundred and eighty feet, comprising four stories, 
which are stored brim full of furniture of every description, 
from the commonest to the most elegant and choice kinds, all 
of which he offers to purchasers a little cheaper than any other 
house in the West. 

Mr. Crane also manufactures every description of furniture to 
order, yet the greater portion of his stock is made by Cincin- 
nati and New York manufacturers expressly for this market, in a 
style which can not easily be surpassed. 

The facilities possessed by Mr. Crane for the prosecution of 
a successful wholesale and retail trade are most perfect, and we 
would suggest to those dealers who are desirous of securing a 
good stock at fair prices, not to fail to call upon Mr. Crane, 
whom they will find to be a courteous and polite business man, 
and every way worthy the respect of our citizens and the posi- 
tion he holds in our community, and who will be pleased to ex- 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 299 

hibit his wares to all, whether they desire to purchase of him or 
not. 

In all business transactions Mr. Crane has adopted the prin- 
ciple of selling for cash, and cash only ; by so doing he is ena- 
bled to sell at least 25 per cent, cheaper than those who sell 
upon time. 



G READING, 

Wholesale and Retail Dealer, Importer, and Manufac- 
turer of Mantillas, Cloaks, Talmas, 
Basques, etc., etc. y 

No. 52 North Fifth Street. 

There is not a house engaged in this branch of trade in the 
United States that transacts a larger business annually than 
this one, nor is there one to be found any place possessing 
greater facilities for the transaction of business, or rendering 
more complete satisfaction to its customers. One can not visit 
this establishment without being surprised at the extent as well 
as the richness and variety of their stock. 

Mr. Reading has had an experience extending over twenty 
years, in catering to the requirements of our market, and by 
his industry, integrity and honorable dealing with every one 
with whom he has come in contact, he has gained a reputation of 
which he may justly feel proud. 

There are few houses engaged in a mercantile business in our 
city that have a larger amount of capital invested, and we do 
not believe there are any who get more certain returns. Main- 
taining intimate relations with the largest manufacturing houses 
in the cities of England, Ireland, France, Belgium and Ger- 



300 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

many, he is enabled to keep constantly on hand a large variety 
of goods of the latest styles. Our lady friends may rest as- 
sured that at No. 52 North Fifth street they will always find 
the most complete assortment of ladies' wearing apparel ever 
brought to the West. The advantages gained by Mr. Reading 
by importing direct from the manufacturers can be observed at 
a glance by any one, as it saves to him the profits usually paid 
to the importer, and enables him to sell to his customers upon 
far better terms than those who purchase their goods in the 
East. 

Mr. Reading imports largely of the raw material which he 
has manufactured in St. Louis ; he may well be proud of the 
character of the goods produced by the fair hands and nimble 
fingers he has in his employ. The lady who does the designing 
for him, and who superintends this department, has not her 
superior, as an artist, in the world ; an idea of her capacity 
can be formed from the fact that she receives a yearly salary of 
upwards of one thousand dollars. Possessing a refined and 
delicate taste, she is enabled to design rich and beautiful gar- 
ments that are entirely free from that gaudy appearance that is 
so apt to obtain ; but each part so harmonizing with the other 
as to render them perfect specimens of the beautiful. To her 
artistic taste many of our fair friends are indebted for the ad- 
miration so lavishly bestowed upon them. Her efforts have 
added not a little to the reputation of this establishment. The 
number of ladies constantly employed by this house can not 
be less than fifty, and they are generally engaged in making 
custom work. 

To those country merchants who are buying their supplies, 
we would say, do not fail to visit the store of Mr. Reading ; 
we are confident that he can meet your wants in a style calcula- 
ted to render perfect satisfaction, and upon terms as favorable 



SKETCH, BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 301 

as can be procured anywhere in the United States. Mr. Read- 
ing's motto has ever been — " Quick Sales and Small Profits ;" 
and by paying a strict observance to this principle, as well as 
rendering the most perfect satisfaction to all who favor him 
with their orders, he has won the enviable position he now main- 
tains. 

To those of our lady friends who wish to obtain something neat 
and becoming, (and pray, who does not?) we would recommend 
a call at No. 52 North Fifth street. They will find polite and 
attentive clerks, (both ladies and gentlemen,) who will take 
especial pride in exhibiting for their inspection the splendid 
stock which is entrusted to their care, and who will be pleased 
to minister to their wants. We know of no house in St. Louis 
more prompt and reliable, and to our friends throughout the 
country we can cheerfully recommend it as one with whom it 
will be a pleasure to form a business connection, as well from 
the facilities they possess of furnishing the best description of 
goods, as from the honorable character of the gentleman man- 
aging the house. 



THE NAPLES PACKET LINE. 

There is at the present time but one steamboat engaged in 
this trade, yet just so soon as the demands of the shipping 
community shall require it others will be forthcoming. The 
boat engaged in this trade at present is the fine Passenger 
Packet J. B. Carson, under the command of Capt. Abrams and 
the general supervision of Capt. S. Rider. The Carson is one 
of the finest boats on the Western waters, having been built 
with special regard to the requirements of the Illinois river. 
She is two years old, and has, during the past season, proven 



302 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

herself to be all that was claimed for her. She has two large 
and powerful engines, having four feet stroke, and working like 
a charm. Mr. McCann, the engineer, and Mr. Jos. Reed, his 
assistant, are capable and efficient officers, and by a long career 
of successful engineering have won an enviable reputation 
among river men generally. 

The Carson will, during the present season, make three trips 
per week — leaving St. Louis on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fri- 
days, connecting with the Great Western Railroad at Naples, 
and returning on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. There 
is not a line of steamboats on the Western waters of greater im- 
portance to St. Louis than the one we are now speaking of ; 
the amount of freight annually carried by them would astonish 
even those most familiar with river matters. The company 
have a wharf-boat at the foot of Spruce street, where business 
can be transacted. The officers of the Carson are true speci- 
mens of the Western steamboat men — a class of men of whom 
too much can not be said. 



BALL, WORRALL & MILNOR, 

D E ALERS IN 

FINE READY-MADE CLOTHING AND GENTLEMEN'S FURNISH- 
ING GOODS, 

OFEVERY VARIETY AND DESCRIPTION, 

No. 164 North Main street. 

This firm have been but a short time engaged in business in 
St. Louis, but short as it is they have established themselves 
firmly in the good graces of our warm-hearted citizens. A suc- 
cessful career of upwards of ten years in the city of Philadel- 



SKETCn BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 303 

phia has given them a perfect knowledge of the trade, and an 
intimate acquaintance with the West and its resources, on the 
part of one of the members of the firm, enables them to cater 
to the tastes of our purchasers with a certainty of success. 

They have their manufacturing establishment in the city of 
Philadelphia, but all goods offered by them in St. Louis are 
manufactured expressly for this market — being of the best 
material, and cut after the most approved Parisian style. They 
are constantly in receipt of New Goods, and are ever up with 
the times. 

The stock of Furnishing Goods kept on hand and that are 
daily receiving is equal to any ever offered for sale in our city, 
embracing every article of Under Clothing, Shirts, plain and 
fancy Neck Ties, Suspenders, Cravats, and an endless variety 
of Collars, Handkerchiefs, Hosiery, &c, &c. 

Messrs. Ball, Worrall & Milnor have adopted the only true 
principle upon which business can be transacted with success — 
that of selling goods for cash and cash only. They will sell 
goods just as cheap as they can be bought in the city, and per- 
sons desirous of purchasing garments should give them a call. 



P. J. PETERS, 

MANUFACTURER OF AND DEALER IN 

SADDLES, HARNESS, COLLARS, BUFFALO SHOES, &c, &c, 

la always to be found with a large and well assorted stock to 
meet all demands that are made upon him, at the north-east 
corner of Main and Market streets. 

There is no manufacturer of Saddlery in the Western States 
who has a fairer reputation, and deservedly so, than the subject 



304 SKETCII BOOK OF ST. LOUI3. 

of this sketch. He has used his best endeavors to render sat- 
isfaction to all his customers, and how well he has succeeded 
may be manifest by the success that has attended his endeavors, 
for from a small and unostentatious beginning he has grown 
into an opulent and extensive dealer, rivalling in extent those 
houses which had attained a majority before this one had its in- 
ception. 

From 1837 to 1848, a period of eleven years, Mr. Peters 
was the foreman of Col. Grimley's extensive establishment. 
Upon dissolving his connection with that house, he started in 
business upon his own responsibility, since which time he has 
won for himself that reputation which he gained from his former 
employer. Mr. Peters employs steadily about forty hands, and 
does an immense amount of business. He uses the very best 
raw material, and in the selection of his workmen manifests 
that accurate knowledge of the business which his long connec- 
tion with it has given him, and by personally superintending all 
his own affairs he is enabled to put forth a description of work 
which can not be excelled in any part of the country. We do 
not think retail dealers or consumers can obtain better bargains 
anywhere than are offered them at this establishment. We 
would recommend them to call on this house and examine the 
stock and scale of prices before purchasing elsewhere. 



PAWN BROKER. 

CHECKERED OFFICE, No. 12 Vine Street, betw. Main and Second. 

In the year 1843 John S. Freleigh opened the first Pawn 
Broker's Office in the city of St. Louis, with a capital of forty 
dollars. Since then twenty others have started the same busi- 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 305 

ness ; eleven of them failed. Mr. Freleigh's first office was on 
Locust, near Main street ; most all the other Brokers opened 
on or near the same square, and in time Locust street was noted 
for the number of brokers on it. Many a friendless stranger 
in our city found several "uncles" on Locust street. Mr. Fre- 
leigh invented his own forms, duplicates and assignments ; all 
the others have copied them to the very letter, without even 
giving any credit to the author. In 1853 he took his son in as 
a partner ; they carried on the business till 1856, when Mr. F. 
died. Since then his son has continued in the same business, 
and can now be found at the Checkered Office, No. 12 Vine 
street, between Main and Second, where he will be happy to 
accommodate all who may need his services. He will endeavor 
to show to the world, as his father did, that a Pawn Broker may 
possibly be honest, by treating his customers in that strict and 
upright manner which always characterized the business of the 
Checkered Office. This office has done a larger business than 
any other office of the kind in the city, and its proprietor has 
the best facilities for loaning money ; therefore it will be to the 
interest of all who wish to borrow money on collateral security 
to give him a call. Gold and Silver Watches of all kinds, 
Duplex, Chronometer, Magic Case, Patent and Detached Le- 
vers and Cylinders ; also Diamond Pins, Ear Rings, Finger 
Rings ; Gold Vest, Fob and Guard Chains ; Guns, Pistols and 
Dry Goods, for sale at one-fourth first cost. 



ARNOTS' LIVERY STABLE. 

J. & A. ARNOT, Proprietors. 

The extensive Livery Stable of Messrs. J. & A. Arnot, on 
Chesnut street, between Second and Third streets, is one of the 
features of the Mound City, and has long been recognized as 



306 6KETCU BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

the best arranged institution of the kind in the Western States. 
Messrs. Arnot first entered the business arena in St. Louis in 
November, 1849. Thej commenced by inaugurating several 
new features which they rightly concluded would be advanta- 
geous both to themselves and their patrons. 

They erected their present magnificent house in 1854. This 
building is five stories high, and the best arranged for the pur- 
pose of any we have ever examined. The horses are kept in 
the basement, while the first floor is the store room for buggies, 
wagons and carriages ; the second story is fitted up in excel- 
lent style and devoted to Law and Real Estate Offices ; the 
third floor is also fitted up tastefully, and used for Offices and 
Sleeping Apartments, while the fourth story is the hall of the 
Ancient Order of Druids. 

But we do not wish to speak so much of the building as of 
the facilities possessed by the Messrs. Arnot for the accommo- 
dation of those who desire occasionally to indulge in the luxury 
of a carriage drive, or of exercising their cramped limbs and mus- 
cles by exercising on horseback. The stud belonging to their 
stable is composed of the finest lot of horses in the Western 
country, both for the saddle and buggy — many of them capa- 
ble of " doing" a mile in 2:40 with the utmost ease, either in 
harness or under the saddle. Their carriages are of the best 
manufacture, light, beautiful and comfortable, while the entire 
paraphernalia is such as to enable them to furnish at a moment's 
notice a " turn out" to please the fancy of every lover of fan- 
cy equipages. 

Messrs. .Arnot have also the finest hearse in the country, and 
are ever ready to furnish carriages to attend funerals upon 
terms equally as favorable as any other similar establishment in 
the Mound City — their drivers being courteous, obliging and 
ever willing to do any thing in their power to accommodate. 



SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 307 

The entire Stable is under the supervision of an accomplish- 
ed trainer, who is thoroughly conversant with all that apper- 
tains to the business of the Veterinarian, while the business de- 
partment is conducted by the Messrs. Arnot themselves and 
assistants, who spare no pains in their endeavors to please all 
who may favor them with a call ; and we will say that all who 
call on them will be pleased by the manner in which they are 
received, and charmed by the equipage which they will furnish 
them. 



a. Mcdowell & co., 

WHOLESALE AND RETAIL DEALERS IN 

CARPETS, OIL-CLOTHS, HEARTH RUGS, INDIA MATTING, 

HOUSE AND STEAMBOAT FURNISHING GOODS, 

TABLE COVERS, STAIR RODS, 

AND A GENERAL ASSORTMENT OF 

Linen Gooods ; Silk, Damask, Delaine, & Embroidered Goods, 

No. 58 North Main street. 

This extensive jobbing and retail house, from their enterprise, 
rich and varied stock, and success in their department of trade, 
abundantly justify us in declaring it to be inferior to no similar 
establishment in the United States. This firm has been in suc- 
cessful operation for over a quarter of a century, during which 
time it has enjoyed the confidence and esteem of the public, 
which 13 ever awarded by those who pursue a straight-forward 
course towards all with whom they come in contact ; and at this 
period they enjoy a name and reputation of which they justly 
feel proud. 



308 SKETCH BOOK OF 8T. LOUIS. 

The house occupied by this firm for the purposes of sales and 
store rooms is situated on the west side of Main street, at No. 
58, between Olive and Pine streets, and well calculated for the 
purposes to which it is devoted. It is one hundred and forty 
feet deep, with a front of twenty-five feet, and is four stories 
high. In the different rooms the various qualities of goods may 
be found, embracing every thing from the most magnificent Vel- 
vet Tapestry, which is gorgeous enough to grace the parlors of a 
prince, to the commonest description of Rag Carpet. 

Their stock of house and steamboat Furnishing Goods em- 
braces an endless variety of Table Covers, of different patterns ; 
Stair Rods ; Carpets that are nine quarters wide, and a com- 
plete assortment of Linen Goods, Silks, Damasks, Delaines, 
Embroidered Curtains, &c, &c. 

They are constantly receiving and opening New Goods, con- 
sisting of Carpets, of every imaginable style and description of 
patterns, from the looms of England, France and Belgium ; 
Hearth Rugs, of an hundred different designs, and of a beauty 
and elegance that will satisfy the most fastidious taste ; also a 
large lot of India Matting, Stair Carpets, Door Mats, &c, all 
of which has been selected with the greatest care, and a strict 
regard to the wants of the Mississippi Valley, by one of the 
firm. 

Messrs. A. McDowell & Co. purchase all their Domestic 
Goods direct from the manufacturers in the East upon the most 
favorable terms, while all their immense stock of Foreign Goods 
is purchased of the manufacturers in Europe and shipped direct 
to St. Louis, thus enabling themselves to offer goods to West- 
ern dealers at Eastern prices. In fact many styles of goods 
are sold by them twenty-five per cent, cheaper than they can be 
bought for in New York. The advantages to be derived by the 
retail dealer as well as the consumer by purchasing their stock 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 309 

direct from the hands of the importer are beginning to be appre- 
ciated. 

The upper stories of their house are expressly designed for the 
wholesale trade, and we would suggest to the country mer- 
chants the propriety of giving this house a call, as we are cer- 
tain that if a superior stock of goods, courteous and gentle- 
manly conduct upon the part of the salesmen and proprietors, a 
firm determination to sell goods upon as favorable terms as they 
can be bought anywhere, and an ardent desire to render jus- 
tice to all, be any recommendation, they will find in Messrs. 
McDowell & Co. all that couly be desired. 



CHARLES HOLMES, 

Manufacturer of and Dealer in 

BUTTER, SODA, BOSTON, WINE, LEMON, WATER, MILK AND 
GINGER CRACKERS; PILOT BREAD, CRACKNEL BISCUIT, 

AND EVERT VARIETY OF 

BREAD AND CAKES, 

Nos. 67 4 69 and 86 # 88 Green street. 

This is one of the most extensive establishments in the city, 
and holds an enviable position in the affections of our citizens. 
The steady and rapid growth of St. Louis has developed to the 
fullest extent the resources of those engaged in the Baking 
business, and we find that the one under consideration has more 
than trebled its extent in the last five years, employing at the 
present time about thirty- five hands, and manufacturing fifty 
barrels of flour daily into Crackers and Loaf Bread, besides a 
large amount of Cakes, etc., etc. 



310 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

As regards the quality of Mr. Holmes' products, we have 
never heard of but one opinion, that of unqualified praise ; in 
fact the large and constantly increasing trade transacted by him 
is a pretty fair evidence of the favor in which he is held by the 
people. Mr. Holmes gives particular attention to furnishing 
supplies to hotels, grocers and steamboats, and is prepared to 
fill their orders upon the shortest notice and the most reasona- 
ble terms. We would recommend such to give him a trial, and 
if he fails to render the utmost satisfaction, we are much mis- 
taken. 

The arrangements of Mr. Holmes for supplying his city cus- 
tomers is perfect in every respect, and as a consequence he has 
a large business, requiring five wagons to deliver the daily sup- 
plies. We are ever proud to notice the success of such houses 
as that of Mr. H. 



A. C. CAMPBELL, RICHAKDSON, '' f ™™J'1' 1L > 

J. T. MILLER, ' 8. R. LEITEB. 

AMERICAN FIRE-PROOF ROOFING COMPANY. 

Office over H. B. Graham's Paper Warehouse, 
No. 33 Vine Street. 

This company has recently established a branch of their 
Works in this city, and will in a short time be manufacturing a 
composition which has been secured to them by patent, and 
which promises to be one of the really useful discoveries of tho 
day. By a scientific and chemical combination of substances 
well known, they have produced a durable, though elastic com- 
position which is impervious to water, fire-proof, and none the 
less useful because of its cheapness — the cost being considera- 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 311 

bly less than shingling. Any one of ordinary skill can con- 
struct this roof by getting directions from the company. 

It was not until after they had experimented long and satis- 
factorily that this company applied for a patent ; nor is it to be 
presumed that the individuals composing it would jeopard their 
standing by embarking in an enterprise of doubtful utility, or 
in recommending to such general use an unworthy thing. 

They esteem it the best and cheapest roofing now in use for 
Railroad Cars and Steamboats as well as Houses. It is their 
intention to manufacture this Roofing Material extensively ; 
they have selected St. Louis as the most central and eligible 
point whence to distribute supplies for the surrounding States 
and Territories. 

Their manufactory is now being erected on South Levee, on 
the bank of the river, below the Gas Works, and will be in 
operation by the first of March. Mr. Charles Richardson, the 
acting partner in St. Louis, has his office over H. B. Graham's 
Paper Warehouse, on Vine, between Second and Third streets. 



FITZGIBBON'S GALLERY. 

Corner of Fourth and Market Streets. 

Mr. J. H. Fitzgibbon is celebrated throughout the Union as a 
skillful prosecutor of the Photographic art, and as the most 
uniformly successful artist in the country. He was one of the 
first, after the Daguerreotype process was given to the world, to 
take portraits from life, and during the progress of the art from 
its earliest introduction he has kept himself au courant of all 
the various improvements it has undergone. He is familiar 
with the history of Photography from its dawn in the researches 



312 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

of Wedgewood, and with its subsequent development through 
the successive experiments of Talbot, Niepcd and Daguerre, 
and thoroughly understands the rationale of every process that 
has been in turn adopted and improved for delineating objects 
by the agency of light. Of his knowledge of Photography, in 
all its phases, his contributions to the various Photographic 
journals and the life-like pictures of his camera are undoubted 
evidences. But not only is he a thoroughly informed student 
of his art ; he is likewise a skillful operator, and the great re- 
putation he has acquired throughout the Union, in connection 
with Photography, is due in a great measure to the results of 
his own personal labors- — specimens of which may be found in 
every city, drawing-room, or country cabin in the West. His 
Gallery — now the largest in the United States — bears testimo- 
ny to skill, his liberality and his industry, and contains, be- 
yond a question, the most beautiful and varied specimens of 
Photographic excellence ever collected, nearly all of which are 
the products of his own artistic efforts. This Gallery occupies 
thirteen rooms, and includes portraits of the most distinguished 
celebrities of the age, likenesses of chiefs of various tribes of 
Indians — admitted to be the best collection of Indian portraits 
in the country — and pictures of various sizes of private indi- 
viduals. 

Mr. Fitzgibbon commenced his career, we believe, in 1841, 
at Lynchburg, Virginia ; but removed to St. Louis in 1846, 
where he laid the foundation of his present great reputation. He 
is one of the first, if not the very first, who re-produced a daguer- 
reotype picture by the electrotype process discovered by Fizeau, 
and has ever been, during his residence in St. Louis, in the 
van of his profession in the adoption of all the numerous im- 
provements that from time to time have been introduced in it. 
His labors have not however been confined to his studio in St. 



SKETCH BOOK OF BT. LOUIS. 313 

Louis. He has frequently made professional excursions into 
various parts of the country, and has twice visited the Indian 
Nations, bringing back with him each time admirable accessions 
to his unrivalled collection of Indian portraits. Once he tra- 
versed the Territory of Kansas and with his camera succeeded 
in obtaining a series of landscapes of that Territory, and a 
collection of specimens of Kansas life, which were afterwards 
embodied in a panorama that possesses the merits of accuracy 
and beauty, and has been pronounced a true representation of 
the country and its occupants. Indeed, we may add, that his 
Photographic illustrations of Western life and scenery have con- 
tributed more than any thing else to convey to those at a dis- 
tance correct ideas of the West. His views of the St. Louis 
Agricultural Fair, published in Leslie's paper, have been circu- 
lated over the Union, and have been universally admired as ex- 
quisite specimens of Photography, and faithful representations 
of the objects depicted, and have served to give a celebrity and 
distinction to the occasion they illustrated which could have 
been derived from no other mode of publication. In fact we 
may say that the St. Louis Mechanical and Agricultural Asso- 
ciation is indebted to his skill and liberality, as his pictures 
were taken gratuitously for the reputation they acquired abroad. 
In his Gallery, which has been for some years one of the most 
attractive popular resorts of this city, may be seen specimens 
of every branch of the Photographic art, of all dimensions, and 
prominent amongst them life-sized Photographs, colored with a 
taste and correctness and truth that can not be excelled by the 
works of many of the most celebrated oil painters of the day. 
Of the latter, his well-known full length portrait of Brooke, the 
tragedian, as Richard the 3d, is perhaps the most memorable, 
and is beyond doubt the finest colored Photograph ever execu- 
ted. It may not be out of place to observe here that nearly 
14 



^ 



314 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

every picture contained in this Gallery was executed by Fitz- 
gibbon himself, who is reputed to be the best Photographer in 
the United States, and who, in the course of his professional 
career, has taken with his own hand upwards of 300,000 like- 
nesses. 

Mr. Fitzgibbon's ability has been well appreciated both by 
the citizens of St. Louis and by those who visit the city, nearly 
all of whom are in possession of portraits of his execution, 
while his skill has received the endorsement of the awarding com- 
mittees of the Fair of St. Louis and the State Fair of Illinois 
in the years 1856 and 1857, obtaining at the State Fair of Illi- 
nois, in 1856, the first premiums for Daguerreotypes, Electro- 
types and Photographs, and at the St. Louis Fair, of both 
vears, the first and second premiums for different specimens on 
exhibition. 

Many inducements have been offered to Mr. Fitzgibbon to 
transfer bis labors to Europe, which he has so far resisted. He 
has it however in contemplation to pay a visit to Central Ame- 
rica during the ensuing spring for the purpose of taking views 
of the ruins of Aztec cities, of the landscapes that have been so 
lauded by travellers to those regions and portraits of the peo- 
ple, in all their varied social relations, and in every grade. 
Such an enterprise would, we think, prove profitable to its au- 
thor, and would contribute materially to the dissemination of 
correct information in regard to a country which at this time is 
attracting unusual attention throughout the civilized world. 
During his absence Mr. Fitzgibbon will continue to make con- 
tributions to his Gallery, and will leave the most competent ar- 
tists in charge of its interests. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 315 



WARNB, CHEEVER & CO., 

DEALERS IN 

HOTEL, STEAMBOAT AND HOUSE FURNISHING AND FANCY 

GOODS, 

Consisting in part of 

Hardware ; Cutlery ; Silver-Plated, German Silver, Britannia, Brass, Bronze, 
Gilt and Japanned Goods ; Enamelled, Tinned and Iron Hollow Ware j 
Fine Planished and Custoua-made Tin Ware ; and Manu- 
facturers of Wooden, Willow and Cedar Ware ; 
Refrigerators, Ice Chests, Water Coolers, 
Bathing Apparatus, Brushes, 
Brooms, Mats, &c, 

No. 25 Main street, and 25 Commercial street. 

This house occupies one of the finest edifices on Main street, 
their new building being a six story double store, running 
through to Commercial street. The extent of room they havo 
can not be conceived by any one ; yet so extensive and varied 
is their stock that they are actually cramped for want of room — 
no furnishing house in the United States beginning to compete 
with them in point of extent or magnificence of stock. 

The senior partner has the benefit of thirty-five years' expe- 
rience in the business, the last twelve of which has been spent 
in St. Louis, giving a perfect knowledge of what is required by 
the Western trade. He was the first regular manufacturer in 
Wooden and Willow Ware in this city ; previous to his advent 
here all this class of goods came from the East ; they still keep 
a large force steadily employed. Their facilities for transact- 
ing business is unsurpassed by any house in the world, as they 
import direct all their European goods and purchase their Amer- 
ican goods in large quantities at reduced rates from the manu- 



316 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

facturers, and are thereby enabled to offer superior terms to 
those who are intending to make purchases. We cordially recom- 
mend this house to the favorable consideration of the reader. A 
catalogue of their goods, in book form, can be had at their 
store, gratis. 



JAMES SPORE, 

HOUSE, SIGN AND ORNAMENTAL PAINTER, 

Keeps constantly on hand a large and complete assortment 
of Painters' and *drtists* Materials, 

No. 101 Ten Buildings, Fourth Street. 

Mr. James Spore began business in this city in 1840, as 
House, Sign, and Ornamental Painter. After prosecuting his 
business with success for a time, and becoming familiar with 
the wants of the place, he conceived the idea of opening an 
establishment for the supply of Artists' materials ; and with 
one of his energy in business, the "thought is hardly con- 
ceived till the deed is done." After proper deliberation ho 
opened in 1848, at No. 62 Chesnut street, with a fair supply of 
such articles as were needed at that time. 

The demand for such articles then was limited ; but with the 
increase of population, and by skillful management in operating, 
he very soon created a business far exceeding his most sanguine 
expectations, which eventually forced him to seek a larger and 
more public place. He then leased and fitted up in fine style 
store No. 101 Fourth street, in the row known as the " Ten 
Buildings," to which he removed in February, 1856. 

He soon filled his store with as choice a stock in trade as 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 317 

could be found in any establishment of the kind either East or 
West. Here his business continued to increase up to the time 
when he was burned out in June, 1857. And notwithstanding 
his loss was heavy, and that he met with considerable opposition 
in opening another stock in said store, hardly had the smoke 
cleared away from the ruins before he again had his store refit- 
ted and filled with a still larger stock. Here the amateur or art- 
ist can find at all times any materials he may need and of the 
very best quality. 

In connection with this business he still prosecutes his old 
business of House, Sign and Ornamental Painting, and, judging 
from the work we saw in his shop, he is not surpassed in his art 
by any establishment in this city. 

Mr. Spore has done more by his untiring efforts and unbound- 
ed liberality towards developing a taste for the fine arts in our 
city than all others combined, and he richly merits the patronage 
extended him. We hope to see his business increase daily, and 
his spacious rooms become a place of resort of the lovers of 
the fine arts and of those who are in want of such supplies as 
can be found there, and also of those who need the services of 
skillful mechanics to execute in the best style painting both 
plain and ornamental. 



CRAWFORD'S BOOK STORE. 

The establishment of Mr. James M. Crawford is situate at Nos. 
30 & 33 Chcsnut street, and stands as a monument of what 
can be accomplished in a few short years by perseverance, in- 
dustry and close attention to business. In January, 1853, Mr. 
Crawford commenced business in St. Louis upon a limited 
scale ; he rented a small room on the same spot he now does 



318 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

business, and commenced the sale of stationery and cheap pub- 
lications. He gradually widened the area of his labors by be- 
coming the agent for the different newspapers and magazines. 
So successful did this result that he determined to enlarge his 
store room in order to better accommodate his increasing trade. 
Accordingly he added another room. This enlargement an- 
swered for some time, but his business has grown so fast that 
he has been compelled to make repeated additions, until at the 
present time he has one of the largest houses in the city devoted 
to the sale of books and stationery. 

The business tact of Mr. Crawford has enabled him to super- 
sede all his cotemporaries in securing the exclusive agency of 
the various newspapers and periodicals as well as obtaining 
supplies of all the latest publications, and he is enabled to furn- 
ish them to retail dealers here in St. Louis on the same terms 
that they can be bought from the publisher. His stock of sta- 
tionery is one of the finest assortments in the West, and no 
person desirous of laying in a supply can secure better bargains 
than from Mr. Crawford. 



JOSEPH WARREN, 

Wholesale and Retail Dealer in Cigars and Tobacco. 

Mr. Joseph Warren, whose business house is situate at No. 
134 Market street, one door from the corner of Eii'th street, 
stands at the head of the Cigar and Tobacco trade of our city. 
Mr. Warren commenced business on an extensive scale in St. 
Louis about four years ago, or in 1853, and having effected ar- 
rangements that put him in possession of all the best brands of 
Cigars, Tobacco and Snuff, he at once assumed the position 
which it has required of others years to obtain. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 319 

There is no branch of: trade that finds so many varied tastes 
to please, and none whose success depends so much upon the 
ability to meet these tastes, as that of the tobacconist. There 
is no greater luxury vouchsafed to us poor mortals than 1 " the 
smoking of a good cigar, and there is no worse affliction than 
a miserable cheroot. None who call on Mr. Warren need ever 
complain, as his brands are the best that are manufactured, 
possessing all the rich fragrant aroma that is so enviable. 

Mr. W. imports direct from Cuba large quantities of cigars 
as well as Cuban tobacco, which he has manufactured under his 
immediate supervision. He also keeps on hand large quanti- 
ties of German cigars for the purpose of being able to meet 
the wants of all who may favor him with their orders. 

The brands of chewing and smoking tobacco are of the best 
known, while all kinds of snuff are ever kept in generous supply. 

Mr. Joseph Warren has been engaged during the last two 
years in furnishing supplies to the different steamboats that 
visit this port, and has the most complete stock for such orders 
of any similar establishment in the city ; and we would suggest 
the propriety to our country friends, when they are here for the 
purpose of laying in supplies, to take a look over Mr. W.'s es- 
tablishment before they make purchases, as we are convinced 
that he can offer them supplies upon terms equally as favorable, 
if not more so, than any other dealer in the city. Mr. W. also 
pays particular attention to the filling of orders from a distance, 
and persons forwarding him their orders can rely upon their 
receiving prompt attention and as liberal terms as when ■ the 
purchases are made in person. 

Mr. Warren is a young man and deserves the support of his 
fellow- citizens, and being to the " manner born," he is fully 
aware of all the wants of his patrons and has made all the 
necessary arrangements to supply their wants. Do not fail to 
call and look over this gentleman's stock. 



320 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

TEA STORE, 

No. 26 Olive Street, between Main and Second. 

Mr. Robert Charles' Wholesale Tea Store, which is situated 
at No. 26 Olive street, between Main and Second streets, directly 
opposite tho Monroe House, is one of the best regulated estab- 
lishments in the city, and does a business annually the extent of 
which would astonish those who are supposed to best acquainted 
with St. Louis and her resources. Mr. Charles has been en- 
gaged in business in St. Louis since 1850, and has built up a 
large and flourishing trade, which has caused him to increase 
his facilities in order to meet in a proper spirit the growing de- 
mands made upon him. 

It would be hardly credited if we were to set down in round 
numbers the exact amount of tea which passes through his 
hands, nor could we find believers were we to state the amount 
of roasted or ground Java, Laguyra and Rio Coffee which he 
disposes of to the retail trade. 

We can assure our country readers that they can receive a 
supply of tea and coffee from the store of Mr. Charles upon 
terms equally as favorable as any other establishment in the 
United States, as he imports all his stock direct. 

At his store, in one of the front windows, may be seen one of 
the most complete steam engines, made by one of our City 
Founders, and from the beauty of its workmauship and high 
finish attracts universal attention from the passers-by. This 
is kept constantly in operation roasting and grinding coffee for 
his numerous customers. 

Do not neglect to call on Mr. Charles before making your 
purchases, for we believe he will be able to hold out superior 
inducements. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 



321 




DAVID NICHOLSON'S GROCERY ESTABLISHMENT. 

It may not be generally known that we have in St. Louis the 
largest retail and jobbing family grocery establishment, not 
only in the West, but in the United States. Mr. Nicholson's 
business locality is Nos. 118 and 120 Market street, directly 
opposite the Court House. For completeness of stock and va- 
riety of wares this establishment is far in advance of all ita 
cotemporaries — so far indeed that in many branches all others 
have calmly submitted to the edict of fate, admitting the supe- 
riority of Mr. Nicholson's stock by ceasing to struggle in the 
hopeless rivalry. 

The facilities of Mr. Nicholson for the transaction of an 

extensive business are the most complete of all the many with 

which we are acquainted. He has his affairs so arranged that 

he purchases directly from the manufacturers and producers 

14* 



322 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

upon the most advantageous terms. He is enabled to procure 
his stock upon much better terms than those who do a credit 
business. In selling to country merchants and consumers gen- 
erally, he strictly adheres to the cash principle, and credits no 
one. He has no bad debts on his hands 'which he is compelled 
to make good by overcharging paying customers, and conse- 
quently is enabled to sell from 15 to 20 per cent, lower, accord- 
ing to the quality of the goods. 

Besides having the most complete assortment of groceries in 
the West, he is the sole agent in St. Louis for Cross & Black- 
well's pickles, preserves, jellies, &c, &c, as well as French 
fruits, strawberries, cherries, &c. His stock of wines and 
liquors is of the purest character, while he is the sole agent for 
Alsop's Ale, Younger's Ale, London Porter, etc. Mr. Nichol- 
son commenced his business in St. Louis in 1843, and has been 
progressing onward and upward ever since — onward in the ex- 
tension of trade and upward in the confidence of the people. 
From his long residence in St. Louis he is widely known through- 
out the Mississippi Valley as a grocer thoroughly conversant 
with all the minutise of the trade -which is pursued by him. 
Passing by the entry ports of New York and New Orleans, he 
goes into the commercial marts of Europe and makes his pur- 
chases and ships them direct to St. Louis, receiving them through 
the Custom-house of our city. 

The success of Mr. Nicholson is but the duplicate of the 
history of many other of our first class houses. Commencing 
business on a small scale, he has been faithful and upright 
in all his dealings, and as a consequence has won the esteem 
and respect of all who have come in contact with him ; and as 
the city grew and prospered, so the area of business became 
extended, and to meet these demands, with a proper spirit Mr. 
Nicholson increased his facilities. Behold the result. He now 
occupies a oosition both gratifying to himself and his friends. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 323 



F. DINGS & CO., 

IMPORTERS OF AND DEALERS IN 

French, German, British and American Fancy Goods, 
Hosiery, Gloves, Toys, #c., 

Have one of the largest establishments in the West at No. 39 
North Main street, up stairs. This house was established in St. 
Louis by the present senior partner of the firm in 1834, and 
has for a quarter of a century occupied a prominent position 
among the jobbing houses of the Mississippi Valley. 

In view of the many disadvantages connected with, long cred- 
its, and confident of the approval of the greater part of their 
customers, they two years ago adopted the cash system. They 
thereby avoid bad accounts and their customers are relieved from 
the indirect tax of supporting the same ; while they calculate 
with certainty upon a quick return of capital, their customers 
may be assured of a corresponding reduction of price. They 
have revised their stock and reduced the regular prices from 15 
to 20 per cent, according to the nature of the article, and are 
determined to keep their prices hereafter, by reason of the new 
arrangements, in the same proportion below the credit prices. 
Whether this will be an inducement to buy for cash we leave 
our mercantile readers to decide, and we believe they will at 
once discover wherein the advantages, both to the seller and 
buyer, exists. 

Connected with this establishment is a feature not possessed 
by any similar house in the city, consisting of an extensive 
Brush Manufactory. The factory is located between Plum and 
Cedar, Main and Levee, and is under the supervision of Mr. 
William Stein, a gentleman thoroughly conversant with all the 



324 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

minutiae of the business. The workmanship of these manufac- 
tures have been highly extolled and have been complimented by 
the receipt of the premium of the St. Louis Agricultural and 
Mechanical Fair. 

Mr. Dings has a large circle of acquaintances throughout the 
West and South and does an extensive business. He possesses 
in an eminent degree those qualifications necessary to complete 
success in all relations of life, as well as an intimate acquaint- 
ance with the requirements of the trade for which he caters. 

We would again urge upon our country friends the necessity 
of examining well into the various facilities possessed by those 
engaged in the wholesale trade in our city, and in doing so not 
to neglect to look in upon our friend, who, we are sure, can 
please the most difficult tastes, and furnish all goods in the de- 
partment in which he deals on terms which cannot but be regard- 
ed as favorable by all who pay proper regard to the purchase 
of goods. 



WILLIAM DEAN & CO. 

This firm are dealers in Juniata Iron, Nails, Castings, Steel, 
Springs, Axles, Nuts, Rivets, Washers and Pittsburgh manu- 
factures generally. Their business house is located at No. 18 
Levee and 36 Commercial street, in the very heart of the busi- 
ness locality. 

This house is the one which, under the management of the 
lamented E. R. Violett, won so deservedly a popular reputa- 
tion, and which since it has been in the present hands has not 
only sustained its position but has grown more into the affec- 
tions of the people. 

The quality of the wares which are offered to the public by 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 325 

Messrs. Dean & Co. have long been before the public and need 
no recommendation from us. These gentlemen purchase their 
goods at Pittsburgh upon such terms as enable them to supply 
the wants of the retail dealer upon terms far more advantageous 
than can be obtained at the fountain head of the manufactu- 
rers. This may appear strange, but it is nevertheless true. 
They buy such large quantities at a time, and have such special 
arrangements for receiving their supplies, that they obtain them 
upon far better terms than can be obtained when small lots only 
are bought. They have their supplies shipped here when the 
freights are low, consequently can sell as low, if not lower, 
than the manufacturers ; and the freight from St. Louis to the 
Western towns is much less than from Pittsburgh, consequently 
the consumer saves money by making his purchases in St. Louis. 

Messrs. Dean & Co. are also agents for Burke & Barnes' 
celebrated Fire Proof Safes, W. W. Bacon's Burglar Proof 
Safes, and D. B. Rogers & Co.'s Cultivators. 

These articles have all achieved good reputations and have 
answered all expectations entertained of them by their friends, 
and we have no hesitancy in expressing our belief that they will 
yet become still greater favorites with the public. 



Tailoring. — Mr. D. S. Thompson, at No. 86 North Fourth 
street, has secured the services of Mr. D. W. Stone and Harry 
Holsman to superintend the cutting department. Mr. Stone 
has not his superior as a coat cutter in the world ; in fact he is 
the inventor of the system now so generally in use among tailors. 
Mr. Holsman is unsurpassed in cutting pants and vests. If you 
want a good fit, go to Thompson's. 



326 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 



EMPIRE PLOW WORKS 




CRONENBOLD & CO., 

No. 305 South Third Street. 

The above establishment has been in successful operation for 
upwards of sixteen years, and was first started by Messrs. 
Bridge & Brother, who sold it in 1853 to the present proprie- 
tors, as their Stove Works had increased to such an extent that 
they could not give the attention it required. 

The present proprietors, aware of the extensive demand for 
plows in this market, have largely increased the establishment 
by the addition of new and labor-saving machinery, enabling 
them to compete with any similar establishment in the Union. 
They manufacture at present, besides the Jewett's Patent Im- 
proved Oary Plow, four sizes of their Steel Plow ; this latter 
Plow has only been introduced three years ago, and already en- 
joys the highest reputation for its performance and durability, 
and where known is sought after in preference to any other 
manufacture from this or any other State. 

They also manufacture Prairie -Breaking Plows, from the 
smallest to the largest size, which find a ready sale in the exten- 
sive prairie lands of the Great West. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 327 

R. BEAUVAIS, 

Importer and Wholesale Dealer in 
WATCHES, CLOCKS AND JEWELRY, GUNS, PISTOLS, CUTLERY, 
AND FANCY GOODS, 

No. 93 Main street, St. Louis. 

The business house of Mr. R. Beauvais is situate at No. 93 
Main street, and is perhaps the neatest arranged establishment 
of the kind in the country. Mr. B. commenced business in St. 
Louis in 1838, when our present prosperous and populous city 
was but a mere village. The success that has attended his ef- 
forts has been commensurate with the growth of our city, and 
each year, as the area of his business transactions extended, 
witnessed new additions to his business, until at the present 
time the most complete selection of Guns, Pistols, Jewelry, 
Watches, Cutlery, Clocks and Fancy Goods can be found in 
his establishment that can be obtained in the city. Mr. B. im- 
ports direct from the manufacturers in Europe, and always pur- 
chases for cash and upon the most advantageous terms. He 
also sustains relations with the American manufacturers which 
render him capable of extending to the country merchants fa- 
cilities which we are sure will not fail to attract their attention. 

The aim of Mr. B. has always been to furnish his patrons 
with a good stock of goods, at a fair price ; and so well has he 
succeeded in doing this, that he never fails in rendering the 
most complete satisfaction. He still retains all his old custom- 
ers who have purchased their supplies from him for the last 
twenty years, and every year adds new ones to the list. 



328 SKETCH ItOOli Off ST. LOUIS. 

HENRY REYNOLDS, 

AP OTJIECARY AND DRUGGIST. 

Mr. Henry Reynolds, (successor to Isaac E. Jones,) Apoth- 
ecary and Druggist, at the corner of Third and Vine streets, is 
one of those Druggists who, by a strict knowledge of the busi- 
ness and a close attention to its duties, has won the confidence 
of every one. The Drug business is one that requires a perfect 
knowledge of pharmacy, as well as the kindred science of 
chemistry, in order to arrive at any eminence. The subject of 
this sketch has been engaged in his business for a number of 
years, and possesses every requisite to the most perfect suc- 
cess. We can assure the reader that he can with perfect con- 
fidence entrust all prescriptions to this house. 

Besides paying particular attention to the filling of prescrip- 
tions, he keeps constantly on hand a complete assortment of 
pure, unadulterated foreign and domestic Drugs, Medicines and 
Chemicals, &c, with which to fill the orders of country physi- 
cians who may desire to put up their own prescriptions. 

He also has a general assortment of English, French and 
American Perfumery and Toilet Articles, as well as every va- 
riety of Flavoring Extracts for cooking ; and is the agent for 
Hagan's Inimitable Hair Coloring ; and Royce and Easterly's 
celebrated Tooth Powder. 

Steamboat and Family Medicine Chests are always to be had 
at a moment's notice, while invalids can procure a supply of 
Fresh Congress and Blue Lick Water. 

The facilities possessed by Mr. Reynolds renders it easy for 
him to hold out to the consumer and country physician induce- 
ments of a superior character, which no one who consults his 
own interests in making purchases will fail to observe. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 329 



FALLON & WRIGHT. 

The extensive Carriage Manufactory of Messrs. Fallon & 
Wright is situate at Nos. 84 & 80 Fifth street and 28 & 30 St. 
Charles street, and holds a position among the manufacturing 
houses of the Mound City that is enviable in many respects. 
Messrs. Fallon & Wright commenced the manufacture of Car- 
riages in 1845, and by the quality of their work immediately 
attracted that attention which is the life of all tradesmen. They 
have since their first commencement greatly increased their fa- 
cilities, until at the present time they have become, beyond a 
doubt, one of the largest and most complete and best arranged 
establishments of the kind in the Western country. Besides, 
they employ none but the best mechanics, all of whom are 
perfectly au fait in all that pertains to their trade. They use 
only the very best materials, and all their work is warranted to 
be of a superior quality. 

No better endorsement of the beauty and utility of their Car- 
riages can be found than the fact that they have succeeded in 
carrying off the first premium from every State Fair held during 
the past four years at Boonville. They were also declared to 
be entitled to the first prize at the last two annual Fairs held in 
our own city. When we take into consideration the fact that 
there were carriages from all the principal manufactories in the 
country competing for superiority, this victory is no small 
affair. 

Persons wishing to make purchases should give these gentle- 
men a call — having a large assortment of carriages always on 
hand they can accommodate any taste, and will sell upon terms 
equally as advantageous as any other similar establishment in 
tho Mound City. 



330 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

WOLFF & HOPPE, 

Importers and Wholesale Dealers in 

GERMAN, FRENCH, ENGLISH AND AMERICAN 

FARCY GOODS, NOTIONS, TOYS, 

— &c, &c, &c, — 
Nos. 159 and 161 North Main street. 

In 1835 Messrs. Wolff & Hoppe commenced business in St. 
Louis with the determination of offering the Western dealers 
superior inducements in order to attract to our city a portion of 
that trade which had for years been extended to New York. 
The manner in which they commenced was a guaranty of their 
intention to meet the demands of the public. They have their 
affairs so arranged that one of the firm visits Europe every 
year in order to be present at all the great fairs and auctions 
and make their purchases ; by so doing they can offer very su- 
perior facilities to all who purchase to sell again. This house 
was among the first who commenced the practice of importing 
their goods direct, thus saving to themselves and their custom- 
ers the profits which had hitherto been reaped by the whole- 
sale dealers of New York and New Orleans. 

We recently strolled through the extensive sales and store 
rooms of Messrs. Wolff & Hoppe, at Nos. 159 and 161 North 
Main street, and were struck by the extent and magnitude of 
their stock on hand, and the large and constantly increasing 
business they transact. Their stock of Woolen Goods alone 
is large enough to make an extensive establishment, consisting, 
as it does, of all styles of Men's, Women's, Boys' and Misses' 
Hosiery and Gloves ; Undershirts ; Drawers ; Heavy Knit 
Jackets ; Comforters ; Hoods ; Cuffs ; Felt and Fancy Wool- 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 331 

lined Shoes, Bootees and Slippers ; Woolen Knitting Yarns ; 
Bindings ; Ladies' Fancy Zephyr Gauntlets, of styles entirely 
new, and of all varieties ; French, English and American Buck 
and Sham-Buck Gloves and Mitting, lined and unlined ; Cha- 
mois-lined Berlin Gloves, with a great variety of Beaver and 
Castor Gloves and Gauntlets, for Men, Women and Children, 
exist in great profusion, fairly bewildering the beholder. To 
one unacquainted with the names of the different qualities and 
species of goods here displayed for sale, it would prove a dif- 
ficult task to mention the articles, and to one fully posted it 
would prove equally irksome to mention an article not contained 
in their assortment. 

On visiting the Notion Department of this house, we were 
shown Laces and Embroideries of the finest quality, which, 
to our uncultivated tastes in such things, seemed an fait. Huge 
piles of Skirts, Skirt Reed and Hoops stared us in the face on 
one side — on the other was to be seen the following rich dis- 
play : French Corsets, Lace Mits, Belts, Handkerchiefs, Reti- 
cules, Ribbons, Umbrellas, Linen Shirts and Bosoms, Collars, 
Cravats, Stocks, Suspenders, Clocks, Candlesticks, Waiters, 
China Vases, Ornaments, Cups and Saucers, Combs of all kinds 
and material, Brushes, Feather Dusters, Buttons, Thread, Sew- 
ing and Embroidering Silks, Zephyr Worsted, Musical Instru- 
ments, Strings and Findings, Porte Monnaies, Cabas, Purses, 
Work- Boxes and Baskets, Perfumery, Stationery, Jewelry, 
Necklaces, Beads, Bracelets, Baskets in greatest profusion, 
Guns, Rifles, Pistols, Revolvers, Powder Flasks, Percussion 
Caps, Travelling Bags, Pins, Needles, Playing Cards, Scissors, 
Pocket and Table Cutlery, Razors, Spoons, Thimbles, Specta- 
cles, Spy and Opera Glasses, Powhattan and other Pipes, Mar- 
bles, Dolls, Toys and Toy Goods of every variety, such as are 
usually found in Toy Stores. 



332 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

Messrs. Wolff & Hoppe can supply the country dealer with 
any thing he may wish, thus giving him the advantage of thoso 
who purchase each variety of goods from different houses, at the 
same time the terms adopted by this firm can not fail to strike 
the purchaser as offering extra advantages. We are sure that 
no country merchants will hereafter visit St. Louis and make 
their purchases before calling and looking over the house of 
Messrs. Wolff & Hoppe. 



PALMER'S. 

The magnificent Restaurant presided over by Mr. John J. 
Palmer is situated on the north-east corner of Fourth and 
Elm streets, and enjoys an enviable reputation throughout the 
entire United States. What Taylor's is to New York, what 
Walker's is to Louisville, Palmer's is to St. Louis, standing 
forth as a bright, lustrous light, far in advance of all competi- 
tion. Mr. Palmer first became introduced to our citizens in the 
capacity of a caterer to the public tastes by his connection with 
the management of the Bartling House in 1854. This house, 
which enjoyed a reputation for superior excellence from Maine 
to California, having been destroyed by fire in the fall of 1856, 
at which time Mr. Palmer was sole proprietor, Mr. Palmer en- 
tered into negotiations for, and was lucky enough to secure a 
lease upon the property now well known to every one who has 
ever visited the Mound City as " Palmer's." 

With a bar furnished with the choicest liquors and the Res- 
taurant abounding with every luxury the market affords — a 
cuisine of acknowledged ability — attendants emulating each 
other in their endeavors to render those delicate little attentions 
which possess such a charm over the hearts of all — and the ur- 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 333 

bane and courteous clerk — ail presided over by the universal 
favorite, Mr. Palmer himself — no better place exists in the 
world to obtain and enjoy a hearty supper of oysters or venison. 
To those of our country and steamboat friends who visit St. 
Louis, we beg leave to refer this establishment to their consid- 
eration, as the place where they will be able to enjoy a feast, 
which, when days — aye, years — have flown and are remembered 
only as a dream, they will bring to mind and dwell upon as a 
bright oasis in their lives. Mr. Palmer's charges are moderate 
and on a par with the hotels, and not like some others we wot 
of, who give you little and charge you high, in order to corres- 
pond with the reputation they claim to possess. 



J. J. DONEGAN & CO., 

No. 60 Market Street. 

Thoso who are not intimately acquainted with the jobbing 
business of St. Louis would be surprised at its magnitude, and 
may think that we are overreaching the mark when we assert 
that we have in St. Louis more wholesale houses than any other 
city in the United States, with the single exception of New York. 
Our business men have pushed forward their business, and ex- 
tended it into every portion of the great West. The reason of 
this rapid advancement is owing to the facilities possessed, and 
the accommodating disposition of those engaged in trade. 

Among the most extensive jobbing and retail houses, en- 
gaged in the dry goods trade, is the old established one of 
Messrs. J. J. Donegan & Co. This house was organized in 
1837, and has had a most successful career, enjoying the esteem 
and confidence of the entire community, and building up a large 



33-i SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

trade. There are few houses in our city whose annual sales 
foot up more extensively than those of this firm. Messrs. D. 
& Co. have arrangements with the eastern importers by which 
they receive their goods upon equally as favorable terms as they 
could import them themselves, and we feel confident, from what 
we know of: this house, in asserting that better bargains can not 
be obtained in New York. If any one doubts this assertion, 
all that is necessary to substantiate the fact is to bring with 
them, when they come here, their New York bills, and compare 
them, and if they do not find what we have asserted to be true, 
why, we will be willing to acknowledge ourselves mistaken. 

Messrs. Donegan & Co. keep constantly on hand one of the 
most complete and extensive assortments of goods rarely found 
in one house, combining the useful with the ornamental. The 
stock of Messrs. D. & Co. consists in part of Black and Colored 
Silks, Cashmeres, Delaines and Merinos, Bombazines, Crapes 
and Alpacas, Undressed Shirting and Housewife Linens, Ta- 
ble-Cloths, Napkins and Towelling; Lace, Muslin, and Damask 
Curtains ; Piano and Table Covers ; Blue, Grey and White 
Blankets ; Marseilles and Lancaster Quilts ; Linen and Cotton 
Sheeting and Pillow Casing ; Cloths, Cassimeres, Vestings and 
Serges, and an extensive stock of Tailors 5 Trimmings; in fact 
every thing required to fill the orders of dealers and consumers, 
whom we most respectfully recommend to call and examine this 
stock before making their purchases. A gentlemanly and cour- 
teous corps of clerks are always on hand, ready to extend the 
courtesies of the times to those who may visit them. 

The store of Messrs. Donegan & Co. is to be found at No. 
60 Market street, between Second and Third. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 335 



KEE VIL & CO.'S, 
UNDER GIAJYT HAT—BROADWAY. 

The Giant Hat Store, which is situated on Broadway, was 
formerly well and favorably known to our citizens as the " Co- 
rinthian Hall," is still progressing onward and upward ; on- 
ward in the march of reform, and upward in the esteem and 
confidence of every person ; evidencing in the most positive 
manner the soundness of the principle upon which they transact 
business, and the advantages of St. Louis in a manufacturing 
point of view. Messrs. Keevil & Co. commenced operations 
in St. Louis in 1849, with the firm determination of rendering 
their establishment the people's favorite. They announced their 
intention, and by a strict adherence to the object in view have 
won golden opinions from all sorts of people. 

They immediately engaged extensively in the manufacture of 
silk and felt hats, and soon " the Hatters of Corinthian Hall " 
were known throughout the Valley of the Mississippi as the 
most promising house in the United States. We have often 
thought that the position of St. Louis was, in many respects, 
more favored than any of her rivals, and we are certain that in 
the hat and cap trade she stands far in advance of all. Upon 
entering the arena, Messrs. Keevil & Co. commenced the sale 
oil the very best dress hats at the uniform price of four dollars, 
and have found it so profitable that they still continue the prac- 
tice. 

They also adopted the cash principle, believing that the credit 
system was often injurious, and was best left alone. They did 
not desire to make the paying man stand the loss entailed by the 



336 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. li'MIR*. 

crediting of the disciples of the Have- nothings, Do-nothings 
and Pay-nothings ; but by selling for cash, and cash only, 
Keevil & Co. enable themselves to afford every one that neatest 
article of dress at a fair price. The popularity of this system 
has been evinced by the large and constantly increasing sales 
which have attended their efforts. They have now the most ex- 
tensive retail sales-room in the country, while their factory 
keeps in steady employment a greater number of workmen than 
any similar establishment in the West. One great secret of 
Messrs. Keevil & Co.'s immense success is the quality of their 
manufactures. Employing the best workmen they can procure, 
and using the best quality of material, they have been con- 
stantly striving to make every hat sold by them to answer as a 
standing advertisement of their skill, and they have succeeded 
admirably. The entire community has awarded them the palm 
of superiority, and they wear their honors becomingly. Such 
cess has not spoilt them, but has acted as an incentive to still 
further improvements, and we now find them in possession of 
one of the largest and best assorted stocks of Silk, Cassimere 
and Soft Felt Hats, which they are offering to the retail and 
wholesale trade upon terms which can not be viewed in any light 
but favorable. We suggest the propriety, not only of the city 
hat-buyer but of the country merchant's visiting St. Louis for 
the purpose of obtaining a stock of goods, calling at this house 
and examining the stock, as we are confident they can not ob- 
tain better bargains even if they bought in New York. Keevil's 
Hall, under Giant Hat on house-top, Broadway, is certainly the 
place. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 337 



THE FRANKLIN TEA AND COFFEE WAREHOUSE, 

No. 29 Franklin Jlvenue, 

Was first offered as a candidate for public favor in 1853. 
The principles upon which this house was establised were, first, 
the furnishing private families and dealers with a supply of 
pure, unadulterated Tea and Coffee ; second, to furnish these 
articles at fair living prices, and fully 25 per cent, less than was 
being paid in the family groceries. In order to accomplish this 
latter object, the manager determined to adopt the only sound 
principle upon which to transact business — that of selling for 
cash, and cash only. The increasing amount of patronage 
with which this establishment has been favored is a satisfactory 
testimonial to the soundness of the principles upon which the 
undertaking was founded. 

Mr. Forbes, the proprietor, is eminently qualified for the 
position he maintains ; a long experience in the business having 
given him a perfect knowledge of it. Our readers are perhaps 
aware that the selection of teas requires a very critical judg- 
ment in order to ascertain the different qualities, and that it can 
only be obtained by a practical experience. 

The same principle is rigidly adhered to in the Coffee depart- 
ment ; an equal amount of tact and skill being required in 
order to secure a full, rich^ and fine-flavored berry, from 
which alone a good cup of this delicious beverage can be ex- 
tracted. It is also a matter of importance that the roasting pro- 
cess should be so conducted as to prevent the escape of that 
volatile oil with which the berry is impregnated, and to which 
it principally owes its tonic and other medicinal properties. 
15 



338 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

The arrangements of Mr. Forbes, by steam power, for roasting 
and grinding, can not be surpassed by any establishment in the 
United States. The practical knowledge of Mr. F. renders 
him eminently qualified to pledge perfect satisfaction in all 
cases. 

This house is now receiving a large assortment of the differ- 
ent grades of Black and Green Teas, and Mocha, Java and Rio 
Coffee, purchased upon the most advantageous terms, which 
enables him to meet with promptness all demands that are made 
upon him. 



MRS. J. WESCOTT, 

IMPORTER OF AND DEALER IN 

Bonnets, Ribbons, Silks, Flowers, French Millinery, 

Dress Silks, Laces, Embroideries and 

Trimming Goods ; 

DRESS AND MANTILLA MAKING, 

No. 104 Fourth Street, (Glasgow Row.) 

We beg permission to direct the attention of the reader to the 
stock of Fancy Goods of Mrs. J. Wescott. This stock, for 
richness, variety and splendor, can not be surpassed in the West, 
and the terms upon which it was purchased are such as to ena- 
ble her to sell as cheap as any house in the city. To persons 
wishing to obtain goods embraced in her catalogue, we would 
say, do not fail to give her a call. She gives particular atten- 
tion to making dresses for ladies, and to the consideration of 
the fair reader we beg to recommend her. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 339 



PROUHET & WITT, 

WATCHMAKERS AND JEWELERS; 

DEALERS IN 

WATCHES, CLOCKS AND PLATED WARE; 

MANUFACTURERS OF 

SILVER WARE, 

No. 132 Main Street, (MVs Old Stand.) 

While giving the history of the extensive Jewelry establish- 
ments of: which St. Louis can so proudly boast, let us call the 
attention of the reader for a few moments to the young, enter- 
prising and promising house of Prouhet & Witt, situated nearly 
opposite the Bank of Missouri, No. 132 Main street, at the old 
and popular stand of the Messrs. Jett, in whose employ they 
have both been for years past, as their Watchmakers, and 
whom they have succeeded in the Main street establishment. 

Messrs. Prouhet & Witt have but lately assumed the control of 
this concern, having undertaken its management about the com- 
mencement of the monetary crisis which swept oyer the commer- 
cial world last fall with such ruinous results. 

Although young men, their antecedents will show that they 
are fully competent to sustain the responsibility of so import- 
ant an undertaking. They are practical Watchmakers, each 
having served a long and arduous apprenticeship under the in- 
struction of "superior workmen, and have since been employed 
in the largest and most extensive Watch Repairing establish- 
ments in the West. They commenced with the determination to 



340 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

make their house truly a Watch Repairing establishment, and 
are now advertising under the heading — "The Great Western 
Watch Repairing Establishment." This branch of the Jewelry 
business has never received its proper attention, having in most 
every instance been entrusted to journeyman Watchmakers, who 
are but indirectly, to say the most, interested in the reputation 
of their employers. Messrs. Prouhet &Witt attend personally 
to all work entrusted to them, and, as their reputation and suc- 
cess depend in a great degree upon the satisfaction they give 
in this department, are directly and deeply interested in having 
their work done well ; and to secure such a result beyond a 
doubt, they have concluded to give that branch their personal 
attention. Gentlemen having Watches or Clocks out of order 
can therefore have entire confidence in trusting their work to 
Messrs. Prouhet & Witt. 

These gentlemen have in their employ a corps of the best 
workmen in the country, and are enabled to fill all orders for 
Silver Ware at the shortest notice and in the most complete 
manner. 

They also keep on hand a splendid assortment of every 
thing usually kept in the Jewelry business ; Gold and Silver 
Watches, of every price and variety ; Cameo, Mosaic, Gold- 
stone, Jet, and every description of Jewelry ; all of which they 
offer, at wholesale or retail, for Main Street Prices, which 
prices are notoriously known to be from 10 to 25 per cent, less 
than those of any other street in the city. 

They are also extensively engaged in the Daguerreotype Stock 
trade, which branch is under the immediate control of Isaac M. 
Mead, a promising young man, who has been engaged in the 
business for many years, and who is thoroughly posted in re- 
gard to all the minutiae of the business. This branch of trade 
has long been monopolized by a few in the West, and as "com- 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 3-41 

petition is the life of trade,'' and a fine field being offered, our 
young friends determined to incorporate this into their business, 
and are now prepared to fill orders for goods of any descrip- 
tion in this line. 

As they are all young men — competent men — deserving men 
— and having recently embarked in business, we heartily wish 
them a speedy and pleasant voyage to wealth. 



D. S. THOMPSON'S 

FASHIONABLE TAILORING ESTABLISHMENT. 

This favorite establishment is situated at No. 86 Fourth 
street, corner of Locust street, and stands alone in point of 
excellence — superior in every respect to all other houses fol- 
lowing the same branch of business. 

Mr. Thompson established himself in St. Louis in 1842, and 
by strict attention to business and an earnest desire to render 
perfect justice to all, has gained for himself and his house a 
reputation second to none. There is no establishment in the 
city which evidences in a greater degree the success which has 
attended the honorable exertions of our business men than this 
one. Commencing upon a small scale, he has grown with the 
growth of the city and extended his facilities as the demands of 
the public increased, till at the present day he finds himself at 
the head of the largest house west of the Mississippi and one 
of the largest in the United States. 

Mr. Thompson when he first entered upon the duties of his 
profession set out with the firm determination of rendering com- 
plete and perfect satisfaction to every one who favored him 
with their orders. In order to do this more effectually he en- 
gaged a number of the best workmen in the country, and has 



342 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

ever continued to keep only those who were " A. No. 1." At 
the present time he has two gentlemen engaged in cutting gar- 
ments — one who devotes his entire time to coats ; and here let 
me remark en passant, the gentleman engaged on coats has not 
his superior in the world — in fact he is the inventor of the sys- 
tem he uses, and it is one now in general use throughout the 
country. If he fails to succeeed in giving a neat fit, it is use- 
less for others to try. The gentleman who devotes his attention 
to pantaloons and vests has not his superior in his line in the 
Valley of the Mississippi. Mr. Thompson is himself a master 
of the trade, and personally inspects every article before he 
passes it over to the customer — having done which, he can con- 
fidently recommend them to his customers. 

Mr. Thompson also keeps a fine assortment of Ready Made 
Clothing — not the slop-shop work which is sent here from the 
Eastern cities for the purpose of selling cheap, and whose only 
merit consists in its cheapness — but goods made up under his 
own superintendence during the dull season, for the purpose of 
being able to meet the wants of those who have not the time to 
spare requisite to have garments made to order. We firmly and 
honestly believe there does not exist in St. Louis a place where 
a better, more fashionable, or neater suit of clothes can be ob- 
tained than at the house of Mr. D. S. Thompson. No better 
stock of cloths, cassimeres, satinetts,vestings, &c, can be found 
in the city, from which those desiring new garments can make 
their selections. Besides the large stock on hand, he is con- 
stantly receiving by Express every new pattern as soon as it 
makes its appearance in the East. 

One person is employed by Mr. Thompson for the purpose of 
repairing the clothes of those who may so desire it, and they 
can not be done better in the city, it matters not who undertakes 
the job. 



SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 343 

Mr. Thompson's terms are as liberal as any one could wish, 
while his clerks are accommodating and obliging gentlemen, 
who are always ready and willing to wait upon visitors, whether 
they make purchases or not. Let us urge upon the reader to 
give our friend a call when he wishes to procure any thing in 
the shape of clothing. 

Mr. Thompson also keeps on hand a large and varied assort- 
ment of gentlemen's furnishing goods, with which he can sup- 
ply the wants of any who may wish such articles, at prices 
which compare favorably with those of his cotemporaries. 



MATHEMATICAL WORKS. 

Mr. William F. Holske, located at No. 62 Chesnut street, 
between Third and Fourth streets, has a shop devoted to the 
manufacture and sale oC Mathematical, Optical and Philosoph- 
ical Instruments, which, from the position it holds, claims from 
us a passing notice. Mr. Holske has been engaged in this 
business for nearly twenty years, and has been located in St. 
Louis since 1854. He has gained a wide and favorable repu- 
tation for the high finish he has been able to impart to his man- 
ufactures. There is not a person in any part of the United 
States engaged in this branch of trade who has acquired a 
wider reputation, or whose wares are held in higher esteem or 
greater favor. 

Possessing all the modern improvements, he is able to add his 
own valuable experience, extending, as it does, through a long 
series of years, and thus produce instruments possessing the 
sine qua non which is so difficult to attain and which is so much 
sought after by all those who have use for them. His stock of 
Surveying Instruments is one of the best in the West, and the 



344 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

facilities possessed by Mr. H. for the successful carrying on of 
his business enables him to offer them on terms which can not 
fail to attract those desirous of purchasing. 

Mr. Holske is a gentleman of fine business capacity, and by 
his tact and talent, as much as by the superior quality of his 
■wares, has succeeded in building up one of the best "runs" of 
custom in the States. We are certain that none can do better 
than to call and examine this stock before purchasing else- 
where, as Mr. H. can and will suit you, both as regards the 
quality of the article wanted, and the price to be paid for it. 

Besides having every facility for the manufacture, he has his 
affairs so arranged as to be able to do all manner of repairing 
in the neatest style and in the shortest possible time. 



BOOKS AND STATIONERY. 

The Book Store of Messrs. Edwards & Bushnell is well and 
favorably known to the reading public, from Maine to Califor- 
nia, as one of the most extensive Book and Stationery Houses 
in the West. Commencing business in St. Louis in 1850, un- 
der the most favorable auspices, the success of this house has 
been such as to meet the expectations which were entertained 
by the proprietors. A change has recently been made in the 
firm — Mr. Edwards retiring and Mr. Bushnell assuming entire 
control of the business. 

This house has always on hand one of the finest selections 
of Standard Works to be found in the West, and the arrange- 
ments effected with the Eastern publishers enable it to 
offer to its Western customers all the advantages that they 
can obtain in the Eastern cities. Besides purchasing largely 
from the Eastern and European publishers, Mr. B. engages 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 345 

extensively in the publishing business himself, and has issued 
many volumes from his press which have been received with 
favor by the literati. 

A better selection of Stationery than can be found on the 
shelves of Mr. Bushnell can not be found in the city, and wo 
are certain that those country merchants who consult their own 
interests will find it to their advantage to visit this house and 
examine the stock and Mr. B.'s terms. With the facilities 
possessed by this house, we feel justified in saying that we do 
not think better bargains can be obtained from any dealer in 
the United States. 

Mr. Bushnell is thoroughly initiated in all the particulars 
concerning the Book trade, and is enabled to bring to bear his 
vast experience in the business. Mr. B. has a large circle of 
friends and acquaintances, and we have no doubt that he will 
still further extend his trade now that he is " going it alone." 



EVANS' ALE DEPOT. 

The Wholesale Establishment of Mr. D. H. Evans is at Nos. 
191 & 193 North Main Street, directly opposite the Missouri 
Hotel, and from the character of the house, as well as the man- 
agement, it deserves from our hands something more than a 
mere mention. In 1842, Mr. Evans established himself in St. 
Louis and commenced business as a Wholesale Dealer in Ale, 
Porter, Malt, Hops, Wines and Liquors. 

The well known integrity of Mr. E. attracted to him many 
customers, who, pleased with the superior quality of the brands 
he sold, spoke in glowing terms of his Ale and Porter. His 
reputation became general, business from all sides poured in, 
and in a few years we find this house leading, by far, all its 

15* 



346 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

rivals. After the retirement of Mr. Evan Evans, the business 
was continued by Mr. D. H. Evans, whose tact has served to 
still further extend the trade of the house. 

There are but few persons who have not at some time or 
other had the pleasure of drinking a glass or two of Evans' Ale, 
while many an invalid has been strengthened by a liberal allow- 
ance of his London Porter. At Mr. Evans' you are always cer- 
tain of obtaining the very best brands, and that which he 
has imported himself. The facilities possessed by this house 
for the transaction of an extensive business are far superior 
to those of any other house in the city. While other firms 
engaged in the same branch of trade are languishing under an 
almost total suspension of business, this house goes swimming- 
ly on, steadily holding its own and rejoicing that times are so 
good. The house that can retain its usual quota of patronage 
during such times as have hung over us for the last ten months, 
must have a firm hold upon the affections of the people. 

The liquors of this house are all imported directly from the 
manufacturers and are warranted to be just what they are rep- 
resented, and we can not do better than to suggest the propriety 
of our readers calling on Mr. Evans and looking over his stock, 
and we are certain that they will not do otherwise than procure 
their supplies from him when once having personally tasted. 



MUSICAL DEPOT. 

Messrs. Balmer & Weber have the most extensive establish- 
ment devoted to the publication and sale of Music and Musical 
Instruments in the city. The gentlemen comprising this firm 
are superior musicians, having for about twenty- three years 
been engaged in teaching it. In 1847, they opened a store in 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 347 

St. Louis and commenced the publication of music. They 
have issued from their prolific press many of the most beautiful 
and popular pieces of the day. The public have become con- 
vinced of their sound musical taste, and know that any thing 
they publish is worthy of being heard. 

They have a large assortment of Piano Fortes and Musical 
Instruments of every variety, which they are enabled to sell on 
the most advantageous terms, as their arrangements with the 
manufacturers give them peculiar advantages over other houses. 

They have also the Western Agency for the sale of Prince 
& Co.'s Improved Patent Melodeons, which they furnish to 
purchasers at the factory prices. Their instruments have an 
enviable reputation with all connoisseurs, who regard them as 
superior to any other. 

Messrs. Balmer & Weber have arrangements with all the mu- 
sic publishers in the country by which they receive all music as 
fast as it is issued from the press, and which they offer to the 
public as cheap as any other house. Dealers, Military Bands, 
Seminaries and Professors will be supplied on the most liberal 
terms. 

Messrs. B. & W. are first rate business men, and have, by 
their talent, won an enviable reputation in St. Louis. They 
command an extensive trade, and no one should fail to give 
them a call. Their house is situate at No. 50 North Fourth 
Street, between Olive and Pine, West side. 



GANTER & HAMBRIGHT'S RESTAURANT. 

FORMERLY "GANTER'S." 

The popular Restaurant situated on Fourth Street at Nos. 59 & 
61, and so long and favorably known by the above title, has re- 



348 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

cently undergone numerous changes and has become so much 
improved that its old acquaintances would fail to recognize it 
did it not still preserve the well known landmarks. Along with 
its outward change, it also appears in the charge of new hands. 
No, not exactly new hands, for Mr. John B. Ganter still re- 
mains ; but he has taken unto himself as partner Mr. H. A. 
Hambriorht, who will henceforth conduct the business under the 
name of Ganter & Hambright. 

Mr. Ganter is well known to most of our citizens as a clever 
and obliging caterer to public wants, and by his efforts has es- 
tablished a favorable reputation throughout the West and South 
for his house. He has an extensive experience, having been 
engaged in the business over twenty years — a portion of the 
time being spent in Cincinnati. 

Mr. Hambright is well known to many of our citizens as a 
gentleman of courteous, urbane and accommodating manners, 
who has had an experience of over twenty years. Mr. H. haa 
long been engaged upon the river, and there is not a steamboat- 
man on the Western waters who can not bear testimony to his 
obliging disposition. For a long time Mr. H. was the popular 
host of the " Crystal Palace" in Louisville, and it was by his 
efforts that that house became so popular with all Kentuckians. 
We are certain that no steamboatman or Kentuckian will think 
of being in St. Louis without calling at this house. 

The arrangements recently made in this house have greatly 
added to its capacity, and they now have eight splendid private 
rooms for the accommodation of small parties, while their ordi- 
nary for the use of societies, suppers, &c, is capable of seat- 
ing two hundred persons. 

The bar is stocked with the choicest liquors and cigars, while 
the larder is supplied with every delicacy the market contains, 
which will be served up in incomparable style, on the shortest 
notice, to the hungry, by the most experienced cook in the city. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 349 



P. & B. SLEVIN, 

IMPORTERS AND WHOLESALE DEALERS IN 

FANCY J2JYD STAPLE DRY GOODS, 

ARE LOCATED AT 

No. 132 Main Street, nearly opposite the old Bank of Missouri. 

This house was established in the commencement of the year 
1843, and at once stood forth as a candidate for a share of the 
widely- developing trade justly due and centering at St. Louis, 
and at that early date assumed a front rank among the houses 
engaged in their line of business. They are in possession of 
all the facilities necessary for the transaction of an extensive 
Wholesale business, and commend themselves to the favorable 
notice of our country merchants by having always on hand a 
stock so varied as to be able to suit the wants of any purchaser 
for any section of country. 

A better or more extensive assortment of Cloths, Cassimeres, 
Vestings, Velvets, Prints, Shirtings, Linens, Silks, Laces, Rib- 
bons, Gloves, Hosiery, Merinoes, Cashmeres, Flannels, Blan- 
kets and Shawls, can not be found in the Mound City. 

Like many other of our extensive Wholesale dealers, Messrs. 
Slevin import their goods direct, thereby saving to themselves 
and their customers the profits which have heretofore been paid 
to the importer in the seaboard cities. The fact that goods can 
be purchased in St. Louis as cheap as in New York is now be- 
ginning to be pretty generally understood, and i3 exerting its 
influence on our Western retail merchants, who, instead of pay- 
ing the heavy expenses incurred by a trip to the East, as well as 



350 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

the increased expenditure for freight and loss of time, are turn- 
ing their attention to the cities ofjjSt. Louis, Louisville and 
Cincinnati — the great depots for the West. 

The economy of business and the profits of mercantile trans- 
actions often depend on the stability and readiness of mer- 
chants in having means to take hold and import in such quanti- 
ties as to make purchases of manufacturers at really reduced 
prices — and the Messrs. Slevins having old established houses in 
the three cities of St. Louis, Louisville* and^Cincinnati, all en- 
gaged in the Wholesale Dry Goods line, have actual advantages 
in importing cheaper t than usual, being ready and capable at all 
times of buying large quantities at reduced rates for^their sev- 
eral houses. 



BLATCHFORD & COLLINS, 

MANUFACTURERS OF 

Lead Pipe and Sheet Lead, and dealers in Pig and Bar 

Lead, 

South Main Street, comer of Almond. 

These gentlemen have been engaged in St. Louis for about 
four years, and have won a large circle of friends by strict at- 
tention to business and an honorable course towards all persons ; 
indeed, there is no house in' the city possessed of a brighter 
name. They work about forty hands and do a large business, 
having in possession every facility for the transaction of a large 
jobbing trade. 

We can with confidence recommend them to the notice of our 
readers as gentlemen worthy of patronage. 



SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 351 

MUSIC AND MUSICAL INSTRUMENT DEPOT. 

Charles Fritz, Proprietor. 

Mr. Charles Fritz, at No. 62 North Fourth street, importer 
and wholesale and retail dealer in Musical Instruments and Eu- 
ropean and American Music, has one of: the most extensive 
depots in the United States. Mr. Fritz commenced business 
in St. Louis in September, 1853, and has been so successful as 
to render his name a household word in every home where music 
is admired. His arrangements for the publication of New Mu- 
sic is the completest and most satisfactory of any we are ac- 
quainted with ; he issues weekly new pieces of American Music, 
while every steamer brings him all that is worthy of notice from 
the publishers of Europe. 

Mr. Fritz imports direct from the manufacturers in Europe 
all descriptions of small instruments, such as Guitars, Violins, 
Melphomenes, Brass Horns, Cornets, Bugles, etc., as well as 
an extensive assortment of Piano, Guitar, Banjo, Harp and 
Violin Strings, which he offers to the trade on the most reason- 
able terms — such indeed as will not be overlooked by purchas- 
ers who look to the main chance. 

Mr. Fritz lias also arrangements with all the various Ameri- 
can manufacturers of musical instruments, which enables him 
to furnish every style of Piano or Melodion that may be desir- 
ed on terms equally advantageous as can be obtained from the 
manufactory. 

We ask our lady readers who desire to obtain a good selec- 
tion of Music, or a first rate Instrument, to call on Mr. Fritz, 
as they will be sure of having every wish satisfied, and will find 
courteous, affable and gentlemanly clerks to attend to their 
wants. 



852 SKETCn BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

FANCY DYEING AND SCOURING. 

The business of renovating is an important one in St. Louis, 
there being a number of large establishments devoting their at- 
tention to it, and the kindred branch of dyeing. Among the 
houses engaged in this business is that of Samuel G. Starkey, 
at No. 36 Chesnut street. Mr. Starkey has had a long ex- 
perience, and gained much credit for the skillful manner in 
which he executes all orders submitted to his care. 

The establisment of which Mr. Starkey is now the recognized 
head, was first offered as a candidate for public patronage in 
the year 1832, by M. Leduc, who " ruled the roast" for sev- 
eral years to the entire satisfaction of all his numerous cus- 
tomers. In 1842 Mr. Starkey became sole proprietor, and has 
since that time devoted his energy and talent to the building up 
of an extensive trade. As the city grew apace, and the wants 
of the people required it, new improvements were made and 
many additions effected, till at the present time it is one of the 
best establishments in the country. He is now prepared to 
execute in the best possible manner, and at a cost less than any 
of his rivals, all orders left with him for the cleansing and 
repairing of Ladies' Silks, Merinoes, Cashmere and Crape 
Shawls, Carpets, Straw Bonnets, Feathers, &c. ; Gent's Coats, 
Pants and Vests. 

The arrangements for dyeing are most complete, and Mr. 
Starkey can, with confidence, assure the public that their or- 
ders will be promptly attended to in the most scientific man- 
ner, as he has this branch under his immediate supervision, 
giving it his personal attention. 

The ladies' department is presided over by Mrs. Starkey, and 
we can assure our lady friends that they will not regret giving 
this lady a call when they are desirous of having any of their 
Silks improved in color or appearance. 



SEETCII BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 358 

SHOW CASE MANUFACTORY, 

No. 73 Olive Street. 

There is at No. 73 Olive street an establishment devoted to 
the manufacture of Show Cases, of every variety, from the 
common Black Walnut to the splendid Rosewood. Here can be 
found the Mahogany, Sterling Silver and German Silver Show 
Cases, in great variety. Mr. Anderson, the gentlemanly pro- 
prietor, established himself in St. Louis, in this branch of bu- 
siness, in 1854, and immediately received that attention which 
always attracts to enterprises of worth and merit. Besides 
every variety of Show Case, this house keeps on hand a supe- 
rior description of Jeweler's Trays, Specie Boxes, Book Cases, 
Looking-glass Plates, of all sizes. Here the druggist can find 
a Prescription Case to suit his taste, and the barber one where- 
with to decorate his shop. 

Previous to the opening of this establishment by Mr. Ander- 
son our merchants and business men were compelled to order 
their goods from Cincinnati or the East ; now the order of 
things has changed, and we find Mr. Anderson sending his 
wares to Chicago and Cincinnati, actually bearding the lion in 
his den. The manner of packing observed by Mr. A. obvi- 
ates all liability to breakage when shipped either by railroad 
or steamboat ; and he undertakes to place his wares at your 
own doors as cheap as you can purchase of the manufacturer in 
Cincinnati — an undertaking which, we are warranted in assert- 
ing, he fulfils in every case. Mr. A. employs a host of St. 
Louis mechanics, and furnishes many hands with work who 
otherwise would perhaps languish in neglect and poverty. We 
claim for Mr. A. a liberal portion of patronage from our 
Western friends. 



354 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

BREMERMANN, RASHCOE & CO., 

Importers and Jobbers of 
HARDWARE AND CUTLERY, GUNS, RIFLES, PISTOLS, &c, 

Are located at No. 3 Main street, in the new Merchants' Ex- 
change Block, between Market and Walnut streets, and offer to 
the retail dealer advantages superior in many respects to any 
similar house in the city. 

These gentlemen have been engaged in the wholesale Hard- 
ware trade but a short time, yet so favorable were the auspices 
under which they commenced that they stepped at once into a 
large remunerative trade. They were thoroughly conversant 
with the minutiae of the business in which they engaged, as well 
as what was required to meet the wants of the country merchants. 
They made all their arrangements accordingly, and the result 
has more than answered their most sanguine expectations. 

Messrs. Bremermann, Rashcoe & Co. import direct from the 
English and German manufacturers all descriptions of Cutlery, 
Guns, etc., while they keep constantly on hand one of the most 
complete assortments of American manufacture to be found in 
any city in the United States. The manner in which this house 
makes their purchases enables them to offer better terms to the 
country merchants than any of their rivals in business, and we 
would recommend them to call and examine the stock to be 
found upon the shelves of this firm before making purchases 
elsewhere, as we are convinced they will not regret it. 

Messrs. Bremermann, Rashcoe & Co. are but lately estab- 
lished, as we have already said, but they-are well and favora- 
bly known throughout the valley of the Mississippi as gentle-* 
men of fine business attainments, and who are determined to let 
no pains be spared to render their house the favorite place of 
resort to the country merchant. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 355 

UBSDELL, PIERSON & CO., 

Corner Fourth and St. Charles tis. 

The firm of Ubsdell, Pierson & Co. holds a prominent posi- 
tion among the commercial houses of the West. It is, in reali- 
ty, a heavy New York Dry Goods House located in the West, 
it being one of the heaviest importing houses in the Union, and 
offering all the inducements of the best New York establish- 
ments to the Western trade. A vast amount of trade stops in 
the West that would go to New York and Philadelphia but for 
our large Western houses, such a8 the one we are now speaking 
of. Still we are confident a great amount of misapprehension 
exists among our country merchants in regard to the advanta- 
ges of buying in the seaboard cities over our wholesale West- 
ern towns. The opinion of many is, that to buy cheap and 
secure a good assortment, they must spend the time, incur the 
travelling bills, and pay the extra costs of transportation to 
buy and bring their goods from the East, and then another in- 
stalment, in the shape of exchange on New York or Philadel- 
phia, to get Western funds applied on Eastern accounts. 

One of the senior partners of this firm residing in Paris and 
the other in New York, gives them an opportunity of purchasing 
goods on the most favorabb terms. The control of the St. 
Louis house is under the superintendence of Messrs. William 
Barr and James Duncan, the junior members of the firm, and 
more affable and courteous gentlemen can not be found in the 
city. Possessing a vast acquaintance among the country 
merchants of the adjoining States, and being intimate with the 
minutiae of the trade, they possess many advantages over their 
cotemporaries. Individuals visiting St. Louis may rest assured 
that they will find at their house on Fourth street, between Vine 



350 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

and St. Charles streets, the same variety of goods, marked at 
precisely the same figures as at New York, which can be bought 
and paid for in Western funds. 

Another consideration may be added to the above. In buy- 
ing so much nearer home, men are not liable to do up their 
work on so large a scale. The policy of purchasing in small 
lots and replenishing often, according to the condition of the 
market or the rapidity of their sales, enables them to avoid 
large accounts East, and saves again in interest, which is no 
trifling item in a merchant's accounts in the course of a few 
years of trade. 

If any of our mercantile readers should question any of the 
facts which we have brought up touching the advantages that are 
offered by Western wholesalers, they must not fail to call on 
Messrs. Ban* & Duncan and investigate the matter for them- 
selves. 

As to an assortment, they will find the case equally clear. 
Messrs. Ubsdell, Pierson & Co.'s stock is kept with reference 
to all the wants of the Western trade. Merchants in Illinois, 
Missouri, Iowa, Kentucky, and the new Territories, can find 
the entire array of goods their particular market demands. 

Their store house is one they have lately erected, and is su- 
perior to any similar establishment in the Western country. 
They also are prepared to do an extensive retail trade, and so 
well is the house respected that crowds of ladies constantly 
throQg the sales room. 

Messrs. Ubsdell, Pierson & Co., have a room for the accom- 
modation of the retail trade, and which, by the way, is the 
most magnificent establishment west of the Alleghenies, where 
courteous and attentive clerks are ever ready to attend to your 
wants. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 357 



JOHN J. LOCKE, 

MANUFACTURER AXD WHOLESALE DEALER IN 

CEDAR, WOODEN AND WILLOW-WARE, 

Refrigerators, Ice Chests, Shower Baths, Rope, Twine, Cordage, Wrapping 

Paper, Mats, Brushes, Cane Chairs, Japanned and Plain Tin Ware, 

Planished and Britannia Ware, Water Coolers, Filters, &c. ; 

— also — 

HOUSE FURNISHING GOODS, 

Cutlery, Silver Plated Ware, Feather Dusters, Toilet Ware, Fine Pocket 
Cutlery, Razors, Scissors, Combs, Sec. — Wholesale and Retail — 

No. 105 North Fourth street, (Ten Buildings,) St. Louis. 
SOLE AGENT FOR HAVEN & "WHITE'S SUPERIOR BROOMS. 

The establishment of Mr. Locke is, without doubt, the most 
complete and extensive of its kind, not only in St. Louis, but 
in the West. This house is another evidence of what has been 
and may be achieved by persevering and honorable men in our 
city. 

Mr. Locke began business in St. Louis in June, 1856, and 
by devoting his entire time and energy to catering to the wants 
of his customers, and selling at low and reasonable figures, has 
achieved a success of which he may well feel proud, as his po- 
sition at the present time is second to none in the country. 

The first floor of his immense store is devoted exclusively to 
the House, Hotel and Steamboat Furnishing Business. Here 
can be found, in great variety and quantity, every thing requi- 
site to the complete fitting out of the dining-room and kitchen, 



358 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

together with many articles, both useful and ornamental, for 
the parlors and chambers. We have never inspected a greater 
variety of Silver Plated Ware, consisting, as it does, of every 
thing of the latest patterns ; Cutlery of the most magnificent 
kind, of the neatest and most recherche styles, elegantly orna- 
mented ; Tea Trays and Plate Warmers ; Planish Chafing- 
dishes ; Coffee Urns ; with many other styles of goods which 
we can not here enumerate, as they would only serve to confuse 
the reader, but which, when inspected, present a beautiful ap- 
pearance, and meet with a rapid sale from all who desire to 
furnish their houses in a good style. This department is de- 
signed for the special accommodation of the retail trade ; a 
host of polite and attentive clerks are always in attendance, 
ready to show and explain every thing to visitors. 

On the second story we come to that portion of the house 
devoted to the jobbing trade. Here we find many things which 
can not be procured at any other place in the city. In addi- 
tion to those things we have already enumerated is a full and 
complete assortment of Cedar, Wooden and Willow Ware, of 
the best manufacture. Here also may be found Refrigerators, 
Water Coolers, Shower Baths, and Plain and Japanned Tin 
Ware. The entire stock, in point of excellence, beauty of fin- 
ish, or durability, excels any thing of the kind we have ever 
seen. We would respectfully urge our citizens and steamboat 
men to call and examine this establishment before they make 
purchases elsewhere, as they may find it much to their advan- 
tage to make selections from his stock. 

The advantages possessed by Mr. Locke enable him to offer 
to his customers, both wholesale and retail, inducements that are 
readily appreciated by all who do business with him. Manu- 
facturing a large portion of his goods himself, and having ex- 
tensive connections with manufacturing houses, both East and 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 359 

West, he is enabled to offer a great many goods at lower prices 
than ever before sold in this city. Should those country deal- 
ers who usually go East for their stock of goods only visit St. 
Louis and call at such houses as Mr. Locke's, they would be- 
come convinced of the folly they exhibit ; if they can not pur- 
chase goods as cheap at this house as they can in New York, 
we are much mistaken. 

Another advantage possessed by Mr. L. is, that he sells only 
for cash, and having no bad debts on his hands he can afford 
to sell much cheaper than those who do a credit business. The 
cash system is the only true basis upon which to depend. It is 
always successful — the very nature of the thing precludes the 
possibility of failure ; and the success that has attended the 
efforts of those who have tried this system speaks volumes in its 
favor. When once the country merchant begins to realize the 
fact that by paying cash for his stock he can get it from fif- 
teen to twenty- five per cent, cheaper than upon the most ap- 
proved paper, he will at once adopt the rule, and strictly ad- 
here to it. Let them call on Mr. L. and become convinced. 

In point of beauty and neatness this store stands unrivalled, 
and forms the most attractive feature in that part of the city in 
which it is located. Strangers visiting the city should not fail 
to visit this establishment, where they will meet with a polite 
reception, and every attention will be shown them by the cour- 
teous proprietor. 



Collins & Blatchford. — This firm (see page 350) have 
a branch of their Lead Pipe and Sheet Lead manufactory on 
the corner of Clinton and Fulton streets, Chicago, 111. They 
are the sole agents in Chicago for the St. Louis Shot Tower 
and the Collier White Lead and Oil Company. 



3G0 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 



S. S. BRAINERD'S 

HOUSE, HOTEL AND STEAMBOAT FURNISHING STORE, 
No. 10S Fourth street, ( Glasgow Row,) opposite Vine st. 

This establishment, which has been in existence since May, 
1849, fills an important position in the trade of our city. Its 
arrangements for furnishing every thing in its line are of the 
most extensive character. Here housekeepers, either young or 
old, have but to mention any desired article and it is at once 
placed before them, and at prices in keeping with the times. 

In a stroll through this Warehouse, we noticed a full and 
complete stock of Household and Miscellaneous articles, em- 
bracing Hardware, Cutlery, Plated Britannia, Bright and Ja- 
panned Tin, Wooden and Willow Wares, Mats, Brushes, Baths, 
Refrigerators, Water Coolers and Filterers, Tin and Wire Safes, 
Steps, Clothes-horses, etc., Wholesale and Retail; also many 
articles which we have not room to enumerate in this sketch, 
but comprising every thing possibly needed in either private re- 
sidence, hotel, saloon or steamboat. 

Mr. Brainerd is a most accommodating gentleman, and has, 
by his courtesy and fair dealing, built up for his house a trade 
which now reaches to every community which has business rela- 
tion with St. Louis ; and this extensive business enables him to 
offer to his customers the most rare bargains. 

We advise our readers to inspect his large and varied assort- 
ment of Household and Furnishing Goods, as a visit, even as 
a matter of curiosity, will more than repay the trouble. 

The idea of having every thing needed by the housekeeper all 
in one establishment was new here until introduced by Mr. 
Brainerd, and a most convenient arrangement it is, for the 



SKETCn BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 861 

trouble of having to visit a half-dozen establishments to obtain 
as many different articles is at once obviated, and gives to the 
purchaser the opportunity of buying such goods as will present 
a uniform appearance, or, as our lady friends 'would term it, 
u match well," thus at once saving trouble and gratifying the 
taste. 

Again then, we say, do not neglect to pay the establishment 
of S. S. Brainerd a visit, and our word for it you will count 
the time well spent. 



a . Mclean. 
lithographic printer, 

No. 15 Chesmit Street, twodoois West of Republican office. 

The art of lithographic printing has been conducted in so 
masterly a style in St. Louis as to win the admiration of the 
connoisseurs in all parts of the country and gain for our litho- 
graphers a wide and honored reputation. Among the best and 
most accurate lithographic printers we will mention Mr. A. 
McLean, a gentleman who has resided, and pursued his art 
with an earnest devotion for about eight years in St. Louis. 
Mr. McLean has executed many superior works of art since he 
has been in our midst, and as an evidence of what he can do we 
respectfully direct the attention of the reader to our " frontis- 
piece," an accurate representation of the Merchants' Exchange, 
and the superior lithograph of Giles F. Filler's "Excelsior 
Stove Works." We cordially recommend Mr. McLean to tho 
public. 

16 



362 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

J. R. WENDOVER & CO., 

WHOLESALE AND RETAIL GROCERS. 

The business locality of these gentlemen is No. 208 Broad- 
way and No. 195 North Fourth street. The establishment of 
this firm has been in successful operation in St. Louis for up- 
wards of fifteen years, and they have by strict attention to bu- 
siness, an honorable and upright intercourse with all their pa- 
trons, won the esteem, confidence and respect of the entire com- 
munity. St. Louis is large enough to afford ample scope for 
the establishment of many such houses as the one we are speak- 
ing of, but there have been but few who possessed the requisite 
qualities to achieve greatness in this line to enter and pursue it. 
Among those who have been eminently successful Messrs. Wen- 
dover & Co. deserve special notice. 

They keep constantly on hand at their sales and store rooms 
a large and well assorted stock of all kinds of Groceries, with 
which they are enabled to fill all orders given them by country 
dealers, upon terms equally as favorable as any other house in 
the Mississippi Valley. They purchase their stock direct from 
the producer, and upon such terms as render them capable of 
competing successfully with the houses of New York or New 
Orleans. 

These gentlemen, besides doing a large jobbing trade, have 
special arrangements for furnishing supplies to families resid- 
ing in the city. Their stock consists of every thing embraced 
in the Grocer's line, which will be delivered at the purchasers' 
doors as cheap as they can be obtained in the store of any house 
in the country. Remember their numbers — 208 Broadway and 
195 North Fourth street. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 



363 



M. S. MEPHAM & BROTHER, 




IUIBLlH 




u» 



Importers and Wholesale Dealers in' 



FOREIGN AND DOMESTIC FRUITS, NUTS, CONFECTIONARY, 
CIGARS, &c, &c, 

Corner of Second and Green streets. 

This is the most extensive establishment engaged in this 
branch of trade West of the Mississippi, and has but few if 
any superiors in the United States. A more complete stock can 
not be found any place than the one kept constantly on hand 
by Messrs. M. & Bro. By a strict observance to the wants of 
the trade, and a liberal catering thereto, they have extended 
their operations over an immense extent of country, extending 
from the great Lakes in the East to the Territories of New Mexico 
and Utah in the West — from the head waters of the Mississippi 
to the shores washed by the waves of the Gulf ; supplying 
every village and hamlet, they have won the confidence and re- 



364 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

spect of every one, and made their name as familiar as "house- 
hold words." 

They import direct from the producers all varieties of goods, 
thus rendering themselves capable of successfully competing 
with the jobbers in the seaboard cities. Their stock of For- 
eign Fruits consists of Oranges, Lemons, Figs, Raisins, Cur- 
rants, Citron, Prunes, &c. ; every description of Preserved 
Fruits, in glass jars ; Jellies ; Hermetrically Sealed Vegeta- 
bles ; Fruits ; Oysters ; Crabs ; Salmon ; Lobsters ; Clams ; 
Pie Fruits, in generous abundance ; and Syrups, in any quan- 
tities. A large and well- selected stock of Green Apples is 
kept constantly on hand for family use and shipping, embra- 
cing the following well-known varieties : Newton Pippins, Gol- 
den Pippins, Bell Flower, Genitans, Vandevers, Romanites, 
Early June, etc. 

This house has been established but a few years, and is the 
result of indomitable energy and business capacity. Commen- 
cing with a limited capital, their course has been onward and 
upward — onward in the march of progress — upward in the good 
opinions of our people, till at the present time they find them- 
selves doing an immense business. We know of no house where 
buyers can obtain supplies upon better terms or meet more 
courteous and accommodating gentlemen to transact business 
with than at M. S. Mepham & Brothers', No. 166 Second street, 
corner of Green street. 

Messrs. Mephan & Brother also import largely of the best 
brands of cigars, and we can assure the reader that by pur- 
chasing their supplies at this house they will secure the richest, 
and choicest brands, among which may be found the Washing- 
ton, El Sol, Victoria, Opera, Concha, Napoleon, Fillibus- 
tero, American, Camille, etc. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOTJI3. 365 



EDWARD MEAD & CO., 

MANUFACTURERS AND DEALERS IN 

SILVER WARE, JEWELRY, WATCHES, SfC.,SfC. 

ALSO IMPORTERS OF 

RIFLES, SHOT GUNS, PISTOLS, REVOLVERS, &c. 

At No. 50 Main street is located the house of Messrs. Ed- 
ward Mead & Co., the most extensive importers of Watches, 
Jewelry, Guns, Pistols, Cutlery, Fancy Goods, and Daguerrean 
Stock in the West. In 1835 Mr. Mead, the head of the present 
firm, commenced business in this city in company with Mr. 
Adriance, under the style of Mead & Adriance. At that period 
the wants of the country were not so great as at the present 
time ; yet they found their stock in advance of the demand, 
and for several years their business was not as successful as 
anticipated. In 1840 Mr. Adriance withdrew from the copart- 
nership, leaving Mr. Mead to continue the business. 

Devoting his whole energies to his business, Mr. M. has had 
the satisfaction of seeing it" increase in proportion with the city 
and State, and now the house of E. Mead & Co. is known 
throughout the entire land as having a large capital and ability 
to fill any contract that may be given it. 

In 1849, when so much of the city was laid a smouldering 
mass of ruins, Mr. Mead lost his all. But, Phoenix- like, he 
emerged from the ashes with renewed vigor, and once more com- 
menced the devious path to prosperity. How well he has suc- 
ceeded is to be perceived by a glance at his establishment. 

In 1852 Mr. Mead discovered that there was little economy 
and some injustice to the city in making all his purchases in 



366 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

New York and suffering them to retain profits on importations 
which might as well be distributed. Having taken Mr. Wm. 
H. Maurice and E. H. Mead in partnership with him in this 
year, Mr. M. set himself to work to make importations on his 
own account, and with this view he went to Europe, visited all 
the cities with which he was desirous of having business rela- 
tions, made his arrangements for the future, and has been for 
some years past enjoying the success of his efforts. Nothing 
can now be ordered in his line, either in Jewelry or the most 
costly Plate, which can not be supplied by them. 

There is another department to which E. Mead & Co. have de- 
voted particular attention. All Western people, from a twelve 
year old boy to the man three score and ten, are pleased with 
Guns, and this house has a magnificent supply of them ; one 
floor is entirely devoted to the exhibition of them, and we doubt 
whether there is such a stock in the country. Double Barrel 
Guns and Rifles, of every size and description, length and qual- 
ity, and cost, are here displayed ; and it will be hard if any 
order can not be filled. We understand, indeed, that mer- 
chants from this and adjoining States, who go to New York to 
purchase goods, always omit these articles in their bills, pre- 
ferring to purchase them from Messrs. E. Mead & Co., and there 
is good reason for it. This house buys directly from the gun- 
makers of Europe, and on the most favorable terms ; as the 
duties are the same here as in New York, it can afford to sell, 
and does sell, as cheap as the New Yorkers can do. Such 
houses deserve the encouragement of our people, and we are 
sure that this fact, when it becomes generally known, will 
induce merchants from the country, and all who buy goods 
for their own use, to visit the store of Messrs. Edward Mead 
&Co. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 367 



CHARLES CH AU VIN, 

WHOLESALE AND RETAIL DEALER IN 

FASHIONABLE HATS AND CAPS; 

— ALSO — 

LADIES'^DRESS FURS, &c, &c, &c. 

Corner of Fourth Street^and Wasbington^jlvenue. 

The store of our young friend, Mr. Charles Chauvin, at the 
corner of Fourth street and Washington avenue, in the Veranda 
Buildings, is one of the most complete and best regulated es- 
tablishments in St. Louis. Mr. Chauvin is a young man, but 
being to the " manner born" he possesses a thorough knowledge 
of the requirements necessary for the successful conducting of 
business in the great Commercial Emporium of the Valley of 
the Mississippi. 

St. Louis, in many respects, is better adapted to the purpo- 
ses of extensive manufacturing than any other city in the Uni- 
ted States. Being the great fur mart of the world, the raw 
material is here procured at a less cost than in other cities, 
while the extent of, the manufactures |have attracted a large 
number of the best workmen in the country to our midst. These 
two facts combined have contributed, in an eminent degree, to 
placing St. Louis in the position she now holds among'the peo- 
ple of the West — of manufacturing the best quality of fur 
goods and hats of any city in the Union. Mr. Chauvin has been 
engaged as a manufacturerand dealer but a little over a year, 



368 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

but a sufficient time has elapsed to establish his house deed 
in the affections of the people, who are never slow to appre- 
ciate true worth or to regard intrinsic value. 

To one uninitiated it would appear strange that a house that 
sprung into existence, as it were, in a night, should attract so 
large a share of public attention. Now that none may languish 
in ignorance, we will simply state that, in the first place, Mr. 
Chauvin's goods are rich and beautiful, and it is worth the 
while of any of our business friends from abroad, when they 
are in the city, to look in upon him and take a view of his 
stock, which has such a wealth of beauty and comfort in their 
very looks. Think, for instance, of a hundred varieties of gen- 
tlemen's Hats— as many nearly of Caps ; and how many of 
other goods we shall not pretend to tell. 

They will be delighted, too, with his stock of Fur Goods, and 
should the day be invested somewhat with premonitories of win- 
ter, those who indulge in Fur Caps, Cuffs, Viccorines, &c, will 
be especially interested. To understand more fully why such a 
stock is demanded, and such a trade drawn in to this estab- 
lishment, we must take into consideration the prices at which 
they sell. The fact is, they are underselling all rival houses, 
and having established a "run" upon his house, he is in every 
way prepared for any emergency that may arise, and is fully 
determined to let no opportunity pass to please all who present 
themselves at his counter. 

Mr. Chauvin was the lucky person who carried off the pre- 
mium at the late Fair held in St. Louis, much to the chagrin of 
his rivals and competitors. Do not fail to call on Mr. C. when 
you want any thing in his line, as he is a whole-souled, high- 
minded, honorable and gentlemanly person, and whom you will 
be pleased to know. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 369 



AN ACROSTIC. 



BY I. G. EATON. 



Tell me, will you, if I ask you? 
I would know where clothes you buy, 
Cut so neat and made so tasty, 
Knowing they shall me supply. 
None but clothes of latest fashions 
On their shelves are all complete — 
Round at 176 North Main street. 

Read these lines to find the fashions- 
Or, to buy your clothes for cash, 
Buy of Ticknor, Robbins & Co.; 
Black suits — blue suits — every color, 
In their store you always find. 
Never are they out of any, 
So the cash is not behind. 

All is right — you have the number ; 
Never go without the cash 
Down to where they keep no trash. 

Cassimeres — all different patterns, 
Of all colors, shade and hue, 
Made expressly for their custom, 
Put at lowest figures too. 
And I too would call attention, to 
Nice vests so fine and cheap ; 
You a harvest sure will reap. 
16* 



370 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 



LUCIEN CARR. ALFRID CARS. 

L. & A. CARR, 

WHOLESALE DEALERS IN 

B OOKS, PAPER, STATIONER Y, ETC., 

No. 49 North Maih Street. 

We believe there is no business establishment in St. Louis 
whose firm has achieved a more deservedly high character for 
business integrity and honorable dealing than that of L. & A. 
Carr, Booksellers and Stationers, No. 49 Main street. Pass- 
ing through the recent financial pressure, which carried down 
many older houses, these gentlemen have retained an unblem- 
ished reputation — promptly meeting all their liabilities and 
faithfully fulfilling every obligation to their friends. It there- 
fore affords us great pleasure to direct the attention of the 
public to their establishment, as one that has added much to the 
commercial reputation of the St. Louis merchants, and as wor- 
thy the patronage of those who are desirous of procuring sup- 
plies of books and paper merchandise, and every thing con- 
nected with the stationery business. Their stock is ample, va- 
ried and most complete, imported direct from the manufacturers, 
both foreign and domestic, at wholesale prices, and upon terms 
that enable them to meet the views of purchasers. 

Messrs. Carr are native St. Louisians, and are well known 
through the West and South as prompt and reliable men, and 
to our friends throughout the country we can cheerfully recom- 
mend their house as one with which it will be a pleasure to 
form a business connection, as well from the facilities it en- 
joys of furnishing the best descriptions of goods, as from the 
honorable character of the gentlemen composing the firm. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 871 

R. H. MILLER & SONS, 

IMPORTERS AND WHOLESALE AND RETAIL DEALERS IN 

China, Glass, Queensware, Brittania Ware, Tea Trays, 
Lamps, Chandeliers, 8?c, 

Nog. 11 & 13 Second Street. 

The position occupied in tho Mississippi Valley as a Jobbing 
and Retail house by this firm during the past twenty-five years, 
abundantly justifies us in paying our devoirs to it. For a long 
series of years they occupied buildings upon Main street, but 
recently their business has increased so rapidly as to compel 
them to seek other quarters. They accordingly selected an 
enviable location in that magnificent pile of buildings erected 
during the past season on Second street, between Market and 
Chesnut streets, where they have ample space to store and dis- 
play their admirable stock. 

This is the most extensive house engaged in this trade in the 
Western States, and has not its superior even in New York 
City, either in point of variety of stock or liberality of prices. 
Here the retail dealer can^ecure every thing he desires, of any 
quality or pattern, and as cheap as can be purchased in the sea- 
board cities. 

In order that they might successfully compete with the East- 
ern jobbers, they a few years since made arrangements with 
European houses, by which means they import direct from the 
potteries in Staffordshire, England, every description of Queens- 
ware. They also import their stock of Trays, Waiters, etc., 
from the manufacturers in England. They receive their Glass- 
ware from the Glass Works of Boston, Pittsburg and Wheeling, 
which can not be surpassed for beauty, elegance or durability by 



372 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

any manufactured in the world. The importers of New York 
furnish them with supplies of French China ware, upon terms 
equally as favorable as they could obtain them were they to go 
to the fountain head. The world-renowned manufacturers, 
Messrs. Cornelius Baker & Co., (who by the way are the largest 
and most extensive manufacturers in the world,) furnish the 
Lamps and Chandeliers. The terms upon which their purchases 
are made are such as to render them capable of meeting the 
views of their customers in an accommodating spirit. 

This house was established in May, 1835, by Messrs. N. E. 
Janney and R. H. Miller, and met with flattering encourage- 
ment until 1848, when Mr. Janney retired from the firm. The 
business was then conducted by Mr. Miller under the style of 
R. H. Miller & Co., until January, 1857, when he admitted his 
sons — Charles Miller, John S. J. Miller, and Mr. G. W. Berk- 
ley — under the style of R. H. Miller & Sons. Ever since this 
house offered itself as a candidate for a share of public patron- 
age, it has received a large portion of the trade of our city, 
and under the flattering success that has attended their efforts 
and the admirable tact with which the business affairs have been 
managed, they have won an enviable reputation throughout the 
West, and of which they may well feel proud. 

The arrangement of their wares could not be better, and pre- 
sents to the visitor an imposing appearance. The basement 
and third and fourth stories contain their crates and unopened 
stock; the first and main business floor, the white and glass- 
ware and chandeliers ; the second, the colored and heavier arti- 
cles of crockery, candlesticks, etc. The first floor, which is 
devoted to the retail trade, contains every thing that could be 
desired, and arranged in a style well calculated to show the ar- 
ticles to good advantage. The room is about twelve feet high, 
thirty feet front, with a depth of over one hundred feet. Here 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 373 

are a corps of attentive clerks to attend to the wants of all 
who may wish to inspect or purchase their wares. Messrs. 
Miller & Sons have devoted particular pains to selecting wares 
for hotels and steamboats, and we would recommend our river 
friends to give them a call. 

To country merchants we Avould also commend them. Give 
them a call before you make your purchases, as you may find 
it to your advantage to make connections with them. Of one 
thing we are certain : no better men to deal with can be found 
in the United States than the gentlemen composing the firm of 
R. H. Miller & Sons. 



J. ROSENBAUM, 
PREMIUM BOOT AJYD SHOE MAKER, 

No. 9 Olive Street. 

The position occupied by this house in St. Louis, and the 
West, justifies us in paying it a tribute of respect in our 
Sketches of St. Louis, and her manufactures. Mr. Rosen- 
baum, the Proprietor of this manufactory, has enjoyed an ex- 
perience extending over forty years in the business — eighteen of 
which have been spent in St. Louis — and during that time he has 
built himself a reputation second to none in the United States. 

Among the many curious and wonderful evidences of the in- 
genuity and skill of our St. Louis mechanics which were on 
exhibition at the St. Louis Fair last fall, we were much struck 
with the singular taste and skill displayed in the construction of 
a pair of boots — a pair worthy of the hand of St. Crispin him- 
self — made by Mr. J. Rosenbaum, of No. 9 Olive street. They 
far surpassed any thing we ever conceived it possible to be man- 



374 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

ufactured in the shape of a boot, and showed the marks of a 
true artist in every respect. 

Nothing in all that is used towards making up the sum total 
of a man's wearing apparel, tends more to give a perfect and 
genteel appearance to his whole costume than a neat and well 
shaped boot, and in these days the gentleman is easily recog- 
nized by the style in which his feet are dressed : therefore, it 
behooves all who seek for perfection in this matter to search for 
one who is perfect in all that pertains to his calling. Such a 
person is Mr. Rosenbaum, who can be found at the place above 
designated. His work has received the endorsement, in the 
shape of first premiums, of both the fairs at this place and at 
Boonville ; and when we consider the great number of com- 
petitors, this is certainly sure proof that his establishment is 
unapproachable in the finish of its work. 

He has always on hand a very complete and choice assort- 
ment of work of his own manufacture, which he offers at as 
moderate prices as can be obtained in any establishment where 
the best of work is done. We can do our readers no greater 
favor than recommending him to their patronage and confidence. 



J. L. CHANDLER & C 0., 

DEALERS IN 

UPHOLSTERY GOODS, BEDDING, WINDOW SHADES, ETC., 

No. 77 Fourth Street, Marble Building. 

This establishment occupies one of the elegant stores in the 
Marble Building, corner of Fourth and Olive streets, three 
spacious floors of which are filled with goods of every variety 
appertaining to the Upholstery trade, and is very much the larg- 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 375 

est and most complete concern of: its kind in St. Louis. The 
business was commenced in 1853, by Mr. Chandler, at No. 112 
Market street, Wyman's Hall building, but the great increase of 
trade soon compelled a removal to more commodious quarters, 
and in 1855 the present store was taken. This was the pio- 
neer establishment in its line of business in St. Louis, being 
the first which combined in one the Bedding and Curtain branches 
of Upholstery together. The firm have given their close per- 
sonal attention to their business and have acquired a high repu- 
tation for their prompt and faithful fulfillment of orders, and 
the superior quality of their work. In the Curtain and Window 
Shade department Messrs. Chandler & Co.'s stock is pre-emi- 
nent, and comprises an immense amount and variety of goods — 
as great, perhaps, as all the other stores in the city, and in- 
cludes the entire range of price and quality. The parlors of 
many of our most elegant mansions attest the richness and taste 
of their goods. 

Three of the finest Hotels which have of late years been 
opened in the West — Barnum's in St. Louis, the St. Nicholas at 
Springfield, Ills., and the Planter's House at Leavenworth City 
— have, among others, been fitted up from this establishment 
with their Curtains, Bedding, &c. 

In the Bedding department great attention is paid to the man- 
ufacture of articles of superior quality suited for private houses, 
hotels and steamboats. Some of the finest of our St. Louis 
steamboats have received their outfit here. The Upholstery 
work on the new Falls City, and the City of Louisiana, was 
done by Messrs. Chandler & Co., and they are now engaged in 
fitting out the Hannibal City for the Keokuk Packet Company, 
which will be one of the most" elegantly finished and furnished 
steamboats ever sent out from the port of St. Louis. The 
Keokuk Packet Company, it is well known, spare no expense 



376 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

to have their boats first class in every respect, and the fact that 
they employ Messrs. Chandler & Co. to do all their Upholstery 
work is sufficient evidence that that firm is in the front rank in 
its business. 

During the business season there are regularly employed in 
the manufacturing department of this concern eight men and 
between twenty and thirty seamstresses. The advantage secured 
to purchasers by having such a thorough and complete stock of 
articles of every grade and price belonging to the trade concen- 
trated in one establishment, is one that no one can fail to appre- 
ciate. 

H. B. GRAHAM, 
PAPER AJYD RAG WAREHOUSE, 

No. 33 Vine Street. 

This house deals almost exclusively in Paper and Rags, and, 
to meet the increasing demands of those purchasing stock in St. 
Louis, has made arrangements with manufacturers for full sup- 
plies of the various descriptions of paper, being thus enabled 
to fill all orders promptly and upon the most favorable terms. 

The rag trade of tbis house gives employment to many 
hands. About twelve tons per week on an average are pur- 
chased, sorted, baled and shipped ; and that some idea may be 
had of the value of this branch, we would remark, these rags 
are worth from sixty to eighty dollars the ton on board steamer. 

To those who wish to obtain a supply of Wrapping, Book, 
News, or Writing Paper, we would recommend a visit to the 
establishment of Mr. H. B. Graham, where it can be obtained 
as cheap as from the manufacturers at the mills. They will 
also find courteous and accommodating gentlemen to attend to 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 377 

their wishes and exhibit specimens. To publishers of country 
newspapers, Mr. Graham offers superior inducements, and we 
advise all such to give him a call before they make purchases. 

Persons having rags to sell, by sending them to Mr. Graham 
will receive the highest market price in cash. 



WILSON & PARKER, 

GENERAL ENGRAVERS AND COPPER PLATE PRINTERS, 

14 Olive Street, opposite Monroe House, and 56 North Fourth Street, Balmer if 
Weber's Music Store. 

The above firm having some three years ago bought out L. 
M. Prince, who was one of the first of the profession to settle 
in St. Louis, have since considerably enlarged their business 
and are at the present time fully prepared to execute all orders 
for Stencil Brands for Flour, Pork, Whisky, Alcohol, and for 
all the various articles and uses, Shipping marks, &c, &c, for 
which Brands are used. 

They also get up dies for stamping business Envelops, 
Cards, &c. , in a style fully equal to any house in the Union. 
Those in want of Seals and Seal Presses for Courts, Counties, 
Commissioners, Notaries, Bankers, or Commercial business, will 
find it to their advantage to call on the above firm, as from 
their increased facilities their prices will be found fully as low 
as any of the Eastern houses. Those requiring any of the 
above, or any thing in their line of business, will find number- 
less specimens of their work at their store, 14 Olive street, op- 
posite Monroe House. 

To those requiring Wedding or Visiting Cards, Wedding or 
Invitation Envelops, Door Plates, marking on Jewelry, ot any 
of the above, will find their orders punctually attended to at 
56 North Fourth Street, Balmer & Weber's Music Store. 



378 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 




DR. ISAIAH FORBES, 

DENTAL SURGEON, 

No. 108 Olive street. 

Dr. I. Forbes came to St. Louis in April, 1837, at which 
time it contained a population of a fraction over 8000 souls. 



SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 379 

He found the field occupied by no les3 than ten dentists. In 
the line of precedence were Dr. Brown, Dr. Hale, &c. ; in less 
than three years the force was reduced to three, the balance 
having left the city for want of patronage. Dr. Forbes, Dr. 
Hale and Dr. Brown were then for a number of years the only 
practical dentists in the city. In 1849 the California fever 
prevailed over Dr. Brown, and he departed for the golden 
shores of the Pacific, leaving Dr. Hale and Dr. Forbes as the 
veteran dentists. 

At the time Dr. Forbes made his debut in the Mound City 
Second street was the promenade — the place where fashionable 
people most did congregate ; he accordingly established himself 
in an office upon that thoroughfare ; but as the demands of the 
jobbing trade began to encroach upon that street, he removed 
to his present location, where his well-earned reputation follow- 
ed him. The number of Dental Surgeons has kept pace with 
the increase of the inhabitants, and at the present time they 
can not be less than twelve or fifteen. In order to protect 
the people from the hands of empirics, the Dentists of St. 
Louis formed themselves into an association, at the meetings of 
which they discuss the various remedies and modes of treating a 
given question. In speaking of this society, the editor of the 
" Dental Register of the West" says : 

" Quite a number of new members were added to the society, 
and from the length of time occupied by the examining commit- 
tee with the candidates, and from their appearance after they 
were through, we rather surmised that they thought the way 
into that society was ' a hard road to travel.' 

" Gentlemen of the profession, unless you are about right in 
that which constitutes the man — in integrity and intentions, and 
also professional attainments, you need not 'knock at the door' 
of the Western Dental Society for admission." 



380 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

The long residence in the Mound City, and the skill ever dis- 
played by Dr. Forbes, has made his name a " household word" 
throughout the West ; and we know none more capable or qual- 
ified to perform delicately all operations in his profession. 



DR. A. BLAKE, 

D ENTALL SURGEON, 

No. 62 Fourth street. 

There is, perhaps, no science being more rapidly developed 
than that of Dentistry. There is none, either, more essential 
to the preservation of the health and beauty of the human race. 
There is nothing in all " the ills that flesh is heir to" more ex- 
cruciating than an aching tooth ; nothing more offensive than a 
bad breath arising from teeth decayed ; nothing more un- 
seemly and distasteful to the eye than toothless gums ; and no- 
thing more pleasant to behold than white, polished, even rows 
of teeth. These are truths patent to every reader, and admit- 
ted by the most careless observer. All these ills are within the 
province of the Dentist, and at his hands receive a speedy erad- 
ication. 

St. Louis, perhaps, has within her borders as many well- 
skilled and accomplished Dental Surgeons as can be found in 
any city of the Union. In the front rank of these must stand 
the gentleman whose name heads this article — Dr. A. Blake. 
His accomplishments as a Dentist and gentleman have won for 
him the regard and esteem of his brother Dentists, and the 
confidence of the community. His thorough knowledge of the 
profession enables him at once to arrive at the cause of all dis- 
eased teeth subjected to his care, and his skill suggests the ne- 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 381 

cessary remedy. Sixteen years' constant study and practice 
have done much to develop and perfect him in the profession 
which he has chosen, and this experience being added to a mind 
naturally active and comprehensive entitles him most justly to 
the position he now holds in our community as a Dentist. 

Dr. Blake is a prominent member of the Western Dental So- 
ciety — an association that requires the candidate to pass a 
most thorough, searching examination before he can be admit- 
ted, and which gives a guaranty to the public that its members 
are gentlemen of ability, skill and judgment, and every way 
worthy the confidence of our citizens. 



JOHN HOW, 

Importer and Dealer in Saddlery Hardware, Carriage 
and Harness Trimmings, Hides and Leather of 
every description, Shoemaker's Find- 
ings, Tanners' Oil, Curriers 7 
Tools, etc., etc., etc., 

No. 140 North Main Street, St. Louis. 

We do not believe that a more highly esteemed and popular 
gentleman, than the one whose name stands at the head of this 
article, can be found ; a long series of years devoted to the 
interests of the city won him the respect and confidence of our 
citizens, who selected him for their chief magistrate three dif- 
ferent times, the duties of which he administered in a manner 
that reflected honor upon himself and credit to the city. Mr. 
How, as a merchant, has ever maintained an elevated position, 
and we know of none whom we would sooner recommend to the 
reader. 



382 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 





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383 



FOR MISSOURI RIVER 




GREAT MAIL, EXPRESS AND PASSENGER ROUTE. 

By Railroad to Jefferson City, thence by a Daily Line of 
Elegant Mail Steamers to all points on the river as high as 
St. Joseph, connecting there with the various Packet and Stage 
Lines for Kansas, Nebraska and Iowa. Fare as low as by 
any other route. Time Saved over the River Route full 
thirty hours. 

The Pacific Railroad Packet Line was established in the sum- 
mer of 1856, under a contract entered into with the Pacific Rail- 
road Company by Capts. Barton, Able and Louis A. Shelton, by 
which the latter parties placed in connection with that Road 
three Steamers — the "Cataract," " F. X. Aubry," and " Au- 
stralia" — forming a tri-weekly line between St. Louis (via Jef- 
ferson City) and Weston. On the opening of navigation in 
1857, this line was increased to a daily (Sundays excepted), 
and has met with a success and patronage truly encouraging. 
The inducements offered by thi3 route appeal directly to the 
traveller, saving, under the most favorable circumstances which 
can surround steamers on their trips from St. Louis, some thir- 
ty hours in time, besides the many delays and annoyances in- 
cident to a lengthened steamboat trip. In the winter of 1856 



384 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

and '57 a very favorable charter was granted by the Legislature 
of Missouri to this company, incorporating it under the name 
of the "Pacific Railroad Packet Company," and the following 
summer Gov. Brown, the present able Postmaster General, see- 
ing the great want of mail facilities in Missouri, caused a con- 
tract to be made with the proprietors of this line by which the 
Great Western Mails for Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska and Salt 
Lake should be carried on their boats during the season of na- 
vigation, and under the same contract forwarded by Expresses 
during the winter. The great demand for transportation of 
Government Freight up the Missouri, destined for her ports, 
and the prosecution of the Utah War, in which promptness and 
speed are required, has induced the War Department to enter into 
contract with the President of the Pacific Railroad Company, by 
which all the Government supplies, together with the troops 
and animals, should be conveyed by this route, so that the Pa- 
cific Railroad and its connecting Packet Line has, in the short 
space of about eighteen months, so clearly demonstrated itself 
as the most practicable and the best route for Western Missouri 
and the Territories, as to become not only the great Mail and 
Passenger, but also the great Transportation route for this 
section of country. 

The traveller arriving in St. Louis can take either the 8 A. 
M. or the 3 P. M. train of the Pacific Railroad, and in six or 
seven hours finds himself in Jefferson City, 125 miles from St. 
Louis, where, within a few steps, and at the extremity of a 
covered gangway, lies one of the connecting Packets, ready to 
leave promptly upon the arrival of the Express train ; his bag- 
gage being checked through, he is relieved of all care on that 
score, and by the time his state room is assigned him, he is 
steaming along on his way up the Missouri, arriving at the 
principal points (in an avcrago time) as follows : Boonville, 15 



BKHTOH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 38f> 

hours from St. Louis ; Glasgow, 20 hours ; Lexington, 36 
hours ; Kansas, 48 hours ; Leavenworth City, 2} days ; and St. 
Joseph, 3 days — being a saving of time of from 30 hours to 
two days, depending upon the stage of water in the river. The 
fare being the same, and accommodations equal, points this out 
as the most desirable route, affording an agreeable change from 
Railroad to river, or vice versa, relieving whatever of monotony 
may be attached to a continued travel by either rail or river. 
The passenger destined for the East, by taking the boats of this 
line, can tell with a certainty as to his arrival in St. Louis, 
reaching that point, as he does, in time for the various connect- 
ing lines. The following elegant Steamers compose this Line 
for the season of 1858 : 

Steamer JOHN H. DICKEY Dan. Able, Commander. 

" WHITE CLOUD Jas O'Neal, jr., 

" VICTORIA Ben. V. Glime, 

« POLAR STAR 0. H. McMullen,' 

" WM. II. RUSSELL J. Kinny, 

" ST. MARY P. Devinney, 

And are unsurpassed for speed and accommodation by any line 
upon the Western Waters. Through tickets by this route can 
be purchased in all the principal Ticket Offices in the East and 
North, or at the several Offices in St. Louis. 



17 



386 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

SEASON ARRANGEMENT, FOR 1858, 

OF THE NEW MISSOURI RIVER PASSENGER PACKET 

STrfR OF THE WEST. 

Regular St. Louis, Council Bluffs, Omaha City and Sioux City Packet ; for St. 
Joseph, Savannah, Iowa Point, Oregon, White Cloud, Hemmie's Landing, 
Rockport, Brownsville, Linden, Nebraska City, Wyoming, St. Mary'Sj 
Bellevue, Council Bluffs, Omaha City, Florence, De Soto, Tekama, De- 
catur City, Sargent's Bluffs, Omadi and Sioux City. 

The new and splendid freight and passenger steamer Star of 
the West was built expressly for the Missouri River trade, and 
will be found to possess unsurpassed cabin arrangements and 
accommodations, and in an admirable degree the qualities of 
strength, lightness, speed, and elegance of model, that will 
render her an acceptable and successful packet in the trade. 
She has been supplied with all the latest improvements for the 
comfort and safety of her passengers. 

The officers are Capt. M. Ohlman and E. M'Clintock, Clerk; 
both of whom are well and favorably known to the people along 
the Missouri River, and who will make their boat a great favor- 
ite. The table will be supplied with every delicacy the market 
affords, and we do not think passengers up the Missouri River 
could be better accommodated than on the Star of the West. 

To the favorable consideration of shippers we recommend 
her. All freight will be handled with care and delivered with 
promptness and dispatch, and her charges will be as low as any 
boat in the trade. 

The engines of the boat are large and powerful, and under 
the charge of skillful and careful engineers ; while the entire 
corps of officers will be found polite and courteous, watchful 
and gentlemanly. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 387 



SPLENDID STEAMER RODOLPH. 

REGULAR PASSENGER PACKET FROM ST. LOUIS TO STE. 

GENEVIEVE, CHESTER, CAPE GIRARDEAU 

AND CAIRO. 

The Rodolph is one of the finest and fleetest boats on the 
Mississippi River, and has engaged in this trade at the earnest 
request of a large number of our most prominent shippers. 
The trade and travel between St. Louis and Cairo has been of 
considerable account for a number of years, but recently it has 
increased to such an extent as to require the services of a first- 
class boat. Overtures having been made to the Rodolphe, she 
has determined to enter that trade this season. She will make 
two trips per week, leaving St. Louis Tuesdays and Fridays. 

The Rodolph is about three years old, of some three hundred 
tons burthen, has great power and runs with great speed. She 
will be found, as regards capacity for business, and the supe- 
riority of her passenger accommodations, inferior to no boat in 
the trade ; and as such her officers take pleasure in presenting 
her to the favorable consideration of the public. Shippers may 
rely upon having their freight handled with the greatest care, 
and delivered with dispatch ; and passengers can rest assured 
that in travelling on the Rodolph they will be made to feel them- 
selves perfectly at home. 

The engineers of the Rodolph are George Morgan, 1st, and 
Peter Hardy, 2nd ; both of whom are well known and respon- 
sible men — their names giving assurance to the public that every 
caution will be observed. The command of the boat is placed 
in the hands of that prince of river men, Capt. J. A. Williams, 



388 SKETCH EOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

while IT. G. Johnson and C. Devol are his adjutants in the 
office. A more accomplished and courteous corps of officers 
could not be found upon our waters, we believe, and we would 
advise our friends to make a trip upon the Rodolph when they 
have leisure. The table is under the control of Joseph Dem- 
ming, the indefatigable Steward, who always manages to have 
all the delicacies the market affords. 



SEASON ARRANGEMENT 

OF THE NEW MISSOUKI RIVER PASSENGER PACKET 

JOSEPH H. OGLESBY, 

B. A. Oglesby, Captain; H. D. M'Lean and J. B. Norton, Clerks. 

REGULAR ST. LOUIS, OMAHA CITY AND COUNCIL BLUFFS 

PACKET. 

For Omaha City, Council Bluffs, Bellevue, St. Mary's, Plattsmouth, Wyo- 
ming City, Nebraska City, Linden, Brownsville, Rockport, Hemmie's 
Landing, St. Stephen's, White Cloud, Forest City, Oregon, Iowa Point, 
Savannah, St. Joseph, Doniphan, Atchison, Weston, Fort Leavenworth, 
Leavenworth City, Delaware City, Parksville, Quindaro, Wyandotte City, 
Kansas City, ate. 

The new, light draught and elegant passenger and freight 
steamer Joseph H. Oglesby will, during the season of 
1858, run as a regular Council Bluffs and Omaha City Packet.. 

The Oglesby is a new boat, having run but a portion of one 
season. She was built especially for the Missouri River trade, 
and can not be excelled for beauty, elegance, comfort, speed or 
promptness. The engines are eight feet stroke, of immense 
pow r er, and managed by F. Marsh and assistants. Mr. Marsh 
is well known by the river men as a careful and skillful Engi- 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 389 

neer ; the Pilots are those clever fellows, E. T. Herndon and 
Jesse Baber ; the Chief: Mate, J. Goodlet ; the Lieutenants in 
the office are H. D. M'Lean and J. B. Norton ; and last, but 
not least, is the Captain, B. A. Oglesby. A more courteous, 
gallant and obliging set of men were never collected together 
on one boat, and passengers wishing a good time should en- 
deavor to procure passage on board the Oglesby. While speak- 
ing of the officers, we neglected to speak of that erratic son of 
Momus, I. J. Rea, the original " Sam Johnson," whose side- 
splitting comicalities have convulsed the fun-loving people from 
one end of the Union to the other. Sam (we beg pardon, Mr. 
Rea,) has charge of the Bar, and will furnish the passengers 
with spiritual manifestations during the trip. 

To shippers we will say, that no boat in the Missouri River 
trade will deliver all freight with greater dispatch, or handle 
it more carefully. Do not overlook her many advantages. 



ST. LOUIS AND NASHVILLE PACKET, 
SALLIE WEST, 

J. N. Corbett, Master. 

There is not a trade centering at St. Louis of greater benefit 
in a commercial point of view than that of the Cumberland River, 
and, in order to offer to the travelling and shipping community 
every advantage, the officers of the Sallie West determined to 
place her in this trade during the present season. 

The Sallie West is a staunch boat, and one that finds few su- 
periors in point of speed. The table is always loaded with 
every delicacy of the market, served up in the best style. The 



f 

390 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

bar is stocked with choice liquors, and every thing arranged in 
the completest style, and calculated to render comfortable all 
guests. 

The officers are old and favorite boatmen, (a class of men 
who never let an opportunity pass of conferring a favor upon 
those who fall in their way,) J. N. Corbett being the Captain, 
and J. Morgan Smith the Clerk. To shippers we would say, 
make arrangements with the Sallie West if you wish to have 
your goods handled with care and delivered with dispatch ; and 
to passengers who desire a safe and speedy passage, with every 
comfort attainable, with the company of a jovial, courteous 
and free-hearted corps of officers, secure berths on the Sallie 
West. 

The Sallie West has been built but a short time, and is of 
about three hundred and fifty tons capacity, having two large 
engines of immense power, under the control of careful and 
competent engineers, who watch with a jealous eye the working 
of their charge in order to prevent accidents. We can, accord- 
ingly, recommend the crew of the Sallie West to the public as 
courteous and obliging men, and the boat as one that will an- 
swer all demands that will be made upon her, and as having 
claims to the favorable consideration of our merchants which 
we hope to see respected. 






M 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 391 



EXCELSIOR STOVE WORKS. 

Giles F. Filley, Proprietor. 

These Works are located two squares north of the Sugar Refin- 
ery, and were commenced by Mr. G. F. Filley, in 1849, with a 
capacity of eight thousand (8,000) feet of moulding floor, and 
melting seven (7) tons of iron per day. 

The increased demand for Stoves of western manufacture 
quickly rendered an extension necessary, and in 1852-4-5 
other additions were erected, which have since been con- 
tinued until at this time the moulding floors of this Foundry 
have reached an area of thirty-seven thousand (37,000) feet ; 
and — with ten Cupalos of four and a half feet each in diameter 
in the clear — a melting capacity of thirty- five (35) tons of 
metal per day. 

This establishment employs an average number of two hun- 
dred and fifty (250) men, whose wages alone amount to three 
thousand ($3,000) dollars per week. 

In addition to this extensive Foundry, there are two other 
large concerns in the city and another is now in course of erec- 
tion ; all of which have a combined capacity fully equal, we 
think, to the demands of the West. 

The accompanying view of the Excelsior Stove Works was 
lithographed by Mr. A. M'Lean from a sketch furnished him by 
the designer of Mr. Filley 's patterns. It is a correct and beau- 
tiful view, and in transferring it to stone Mr. M'Lean has dis- 
played workmanship of rare ability. 



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392 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

E. W. WARNE'S MARBLE WORKS, 

JYu. 9 South Fourth street, 

DEALER IN 

Egyptian, Italian and American Marble Monuments, Tombs, Mantels, 
Tables, and Counter Tops, fyc. 

There is not in our city a place possessing greater attractions 
for visitors than the Marble Works of Mr. Warne. Here they 
can feast their eyes upon specimens of Statuary rivalling in 
beauty the master pieces of Powers and Crawford. Here they 
can see every description of Tombs and Monuments, designed 
as mementoes to those loved ones who have gone to that home 
from whence none return. 

Mr. Warne has been engaged in business in St. Louis for 
eight years, and has gained for himself and his works a reputa- 
tion of which he may feel proud. We feel certain that he has 
not his equal as a workman in the Western States, nor his su- 
perior anywhere. To those persons who wish to erect Tomb 
Stones or Monuments over the graves of their friends, we would 
say do not neglect to call upon Mr. Warne and inspect his 
stock and learn his prices. 

Those who wish to procure a superior article of Mantels 
should not fail to visit Mr. Spore's Artists' Emporium, No. 101 
Fourth street, where Mr. Warne has a large stock, which Mr. 
Spore will take pleasure in showing to all visitors. 

Mr. Warne is also the sole agent in St. Louis for the Caho- 
kia Cement Company. 

All orders from the country will receive prompt attention, 
and we bespeak for Mr. Warne a continuance of that patronage 
that has hitherto attended his efforts. 



SKETCH LOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 393 



JONES' COMMERCIAL COLLEGE. 

This Institution, located for the present at the corner of 
Washington avenue and Third street, is one of the most prom- 
inent, as well as the best conducted and most complete Institu- 
tion of the kind either east or west of the Alleghanies. Its 
Principal is Mr. Jonathan Jones, Master of Accounts, Profes- 
sor of the Theory and Practice of Book-keeping, Commercial 
Correspondence, etc., and who, as a lecturer and instructor of 
the Principles of Commercial Law, has no superior in the West- 
ern country. 

Among the Faculty of the Institution, we also find the names 
of Ferdinand Henderson, Archibald Inglis, and Henry M. Wi- 
bracht, Practical Accountants, and permanent associates in the 
Book-keeping Department ; Philip Schmidt, Associate in the 
Book-keeping Department for the Evening Session of 1857-8 ; 
Charles Stuart, Professor of Mathematics, who has special 
charge of Commercial Calculations ; S. D. Hayden, Professor 
of Penmanship, and who, of course, has charge of the Writing 
Department. 

The gentlemen above named are all proficient to a remarka- 
ble degree in the various departments assigned them — and, taken 
as a whole, comprise a force most worthy of public confidence 
and most able to teach all that relates to mercantile transac- 
tions, and are of themselves a great and lasting honor to our 
city. Its influence is seen and felt in every town in the West ; 
and upon the Western rivers scarcely any other mode of Book- 
Keeping, save that taught at this institution, can now be found. 
With our merchants it is a favorite school, and the fact that 
most of our leading business houses have their books kept upon 
the same plan tends to simplify and render more expeditious the 
various mercantile transactions of our community. 
17* 



394 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

The mere business of knowing how to set figures in their pro- 
per places is not the sole end and aim of this school, and in or- 
der that we may place the institution in its proper light before 
those who may be ignorant of what is proposed to be done by 
those connected with it, we think it proper to insert here a se- 
ries of questions and answers on the plan of instruction, which 
we find in the Catalogue : 

Question 1st. What are the peculiar characteristics of Jones' 
Commercial College, and what does it propose to do ? 

Answer. 1. It has all the facilities requisite to a thorough 
counting-room education, the student being taught, by practical 
accounts, here, just as he will be called upon to perform his 
duties there ; a young gentleman having a diploma from this 
Institution, therefore, must be as perfectly able to perform the 
accountant's duties as though he had served an apprenticeship 
in the counting-house — Jones' Commercial College being, to 
all intents and purposes, a counting-house. 

2. This Institution is divided into four separate Departments, 
viz : one for Book-keeping, one for Commercial Calculations, 
one for Commercial Law, and one for Penmanship, each being 
independent of the other, etc. 

3. The proprietor has served a regular counting-house ap- 
prenticeship in a first-class business house, and what he knows 
of Book-keeping he has learned in the doing of it ; and as he 
has been taught by a practical Book-keeper, so he teaches 
others to perform the duties of the practical accountant. 
iS® 3 " Reference given to over three hundred Book-keepers, now 
in charge of books in this city, who have completed their edu- 
cation in this Institution. 

Question Id. What is required of applicants for admission 
into Jones' Commercial College ? 

Answer. That the young gentleman be of good moral char- 






SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 395 

acter, industrious business habits, and at least through the rudi- 
ments of an ordinary English education. 

The permanent establishment of an Institution, devoted ex- 
clusively to the instruction of gentlemen, in a select and limi- 
ted number of the most important and useful branches of a 
General Education — confining its operations mainly to those 
branches which experience has long since proved can not be suc- 
cessfully taught in connection with the great variety of studies 
requisite to a scientific and liberal Education — it has long been 
the opinion of many of our most prominent business men that 
such an Academy would be of public utility, an efficient aid to 
the " Common School System, " and an acceptable auxiliary 
to our deservedly popular "Literary Institutions," in their 
most laudable efforts ; while, at the same time, it reaches a cer- 
tain class, and effects an important end, in a commercial com- 
munity, which could not be accomplished in any other way. 

We are not unconscious of Avhat it requires, in the way of 
expenditure and persevering toil, to revolutionize popular sen- 
timent, where an entire business community have long been ac- 
customed to look one way at the same subject ; but experience 
has long since convinced us that it is an easy task to teach a 
person a thing which it is his interest to know, and to enlist the 
cooperation of a class deservedly popular for their enlightened 
liberality and enlarged views of progressive improvements and 
practical reforms. 

The practicability of directing the education of a young gen- 
tleman with reference to that pursuit which nature or inclina- 
tion may lead him to choose, and thus create a firm basis for 
an intelligent, rational and systematic disposition of his time, 
his talents, or his capital, is becoming more apparent to all ; 
and hence the increasing demand for Mathematical and Law In- 
stitutes — Theological, Medical and Commercial Colleges; in- 



390 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

stitutions called into being by a necessity growing out of the 
very organization or! society, and the diversified demands and 
reciprocal duties of a business community. For the correct- 
ness of this conclusion, apart from our own experience, we have 
the highest authority. In an address on this subject, of more 
than usual interest to young gentlemen, the late Judge Walker 
(an eminent member of the Cincinnati bar) remarks : 

" The result to which I would conduct your minds is, that, 
to the merchant, knowledge is capital. If it be a general truth 
in human affairs, that knowledge i3 power, I hold it to be pre- 
eminently so in regard to mercantile pursuits. Without it, all 
the capital of a Girard or an Astor would not make a merchant ; 
and with it, as the principal thing, capital soon follows as an 
incident. Accordingly, the first duty of every person destined 
for a merchant, is to prepare himself, by a suitable education, 
for an intelligent discharge of his diversified functions — just as 
much so as of a lawyer, a physician, or a clergyman ; and to 
this end, there is just as much need of commercial schools and 
colleges as of any other ; and these, I rejoice to say, we are 
beginning to have in all our commercial cities. We have, too, 
commercial dictionaries and magazines — a distinct commercial 
department for newspapers — chambers of commerce — boards of 
trade — reading-rooms, and, best of all, library associations. 
All these things bear gratifying testimony to the increased in- 
terest taken in mercantile education. And why should it not be 
so ? Why should not the mercantile profession stand side by 
side with the other so-called liberal professions ? There is, in 
truth, no good reason, whether we look to its dignity, difficulty, 
or utility." 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 397 



DOUBLE-ENTRY BOOK-KEEPING. 

There has been, in the mercantile community, a universal 
prejudice of long standing, 'touching the art of Double-entry 
Book-keeping, as ordinarily taught in the " Literary and Sci- 
entific Institutions" of our day, which the incompetency of ma- 
ny who have attempted to teach Book-keeping theoretically, as 
well as the defects peculiar to their systems, have naturally 
enough created. This prejudice is both well founded and just ; 
but if those institutions have mistaken Double -entry Book-keep- 
ing (a practical art) for an abstruse, complex and difficult sci- 
ence, and delivered long printed lectures upon its " Specula- 
tive Theory," or required the student to memorize arbitrary 
rules, and finally failed in the end to accomplish their object, 
does it hence follow that we are to have no improvement in the 
art of teaching? or, are systems founded upon entirely differ- 
ent principles — principles diametrically opposed to those in 
their bearing and practical application — subject to the same 
fate, and that, too, without a fair trial ? This conclusion is 
disingenuous, illogical, and unjust. It is obvious to every in- 
telligent practical accountant that Book-keeping has a theory 
as well as a practice to be acquired ; and to that young gentle- 
men aspiring to the highest rank as a scientific and practical 
accountant, much will depend upon the demonstrator of those 
principles which are to govern him in the performance of his 
duties. The utility of Double- entry Book-keeping, in the 
management of accounts, is no longer questioned. Its per- 
fect adaptation (with proper forms) to mercantile, steamboat, 
manufacturing, and joint stock operations, has been so fully 
tested, that but few business men now consider their capital 
safe where the books of the company are not kept by double- 
entry. 



398 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

The only question is, how are young gentlemen, inexperien- 
ced in the management of accounts by double-entry — though 
familiarized with the general routine of business, writing legi- 
ble hands, and competent to perform the ordinary calculations 
of accountants — to be qualified as practical book-keepers for the 
performance of their duties in the counting-house? Or, in other 
words, where is a supply of practical accountants, equal to the 
demand, to be obtained? To this we unhesitatingly reply, they 
can only be taught, trained and qualified by practical account- 
ants, who understand the entire routine of the counting-house, 
its duties and requirements. Hence, no literary institution, 
school or college ever did produce a single practical account- 
ant, competent to assume the charge of a set of books, upon 
the ordinary class and text-book plan of instruction. 

But, if inexperienced theoretical teachers fail to supply the 
counting-house with practical book-keepers, and the demand for 
such services induce experienced practical accountants to adopt 
teaching as a profession — if they organize an institution with 
all the facilities known in the actual performance of their du- 
ties—if they teach young gentlemen, of good business habits, 
to perform their duties just as they have been taught, and use 
the exact forms and auxiliaries approved and adopted by our 
leading mercantile houses — can any intelligent business man 
question their ability to produce just as thorough practical ac- 
countants as those raised in the counting-house ? Equally ob- 
vious will it appear to every unprejudiced, observing business 
man, that if a gentleman, of good business habits, be required 
to take a Blotter, containing every variety of entry that can pos- 
sibly occur in the " counting-house," and put it through (in its 
proper shape) the Cash Book, Journal and Ledger, and give all 
the reasons involved in the opening, journalizing, posting, tak- 
ing off the monthly trials, and finally, in the closing of the 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 399 

Books, he must be competent to properly open, successfully 
conduct, and correctly close any set of Books under all and 
every circumstance. 

In this particular the operations at Jones' Commercial Col- 
lege are peculiar ; instead of placing in the hands of the pupil 
a treatise (such as Bennett's or Colt's Book-keeping) contain- 
ing lectures, rules, &c, to memorize or to copy, a practical 
Book-keeper demonstrates the legitimate design of Debit and 
Credit, and then brings those principles to bear upon actual 
business transactions, such as occur in every counting-house. 
The student, being first taught the true nature of the relation that 
exists between the Merchant, the Salesman, and the Book- 
keeper, copies his Blotter, journalizes, posts, takes his monthly 
Trial Balances, &c, and proceeds in the practical discharge of 
his duties as though he were conducting a set of Books in an 
extensive establishment. 

The practicability of this course, its superiority over all 
others, and its perfect adaptation to the making of thorough 
Accountants, have been fully tested in this community during 
the last seventeen years. Hundreds of young gentlemen out of 
employment, Mechanics unable to follow their pursuits, Sales- 
men, Second Clerks, &c, have been qualified for the Counting- 
house and Steamboat Clerkship, and placed in situations worth 
$600, $800, $900, $1200 and $1500 per annum — to whom 
personal reference will be given by calling upon the Principal. 

STEAMBOAT BOOK-KEEPING. 

From the simplicity of the practical forms now in use for 
Cash Books, Freight Book, Passage Book, &c. — the limited 
variety of transactions and uniform manner of adjusting each 
respective trip's work, in the ordinary routine consequent upon 
doing a cash business exclusively — many have been led to sup- 



400 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

pose Steamboat Book-keeping to be a very simple and easy 
thing. While to the thorough accountant and experienced 
steamboat clerk such is the fact, in a great majority of cases the 
precise reverse holds good. That is, Steamboat Book-keeping, 
without a knowledge of the Mercantile, is more complex, varied, 
and difficult than Mercantile Book-keeping in the ordinary pur- 
suits — and why should it not be so ? Steamboats incur respon- 
sibilities, contract debts, and deliver goods without pay, just as 
merchants do ; they often speculate just as merchants specu- 
late, and not un frequently negotiate bills of exchange, to "raise 
the wind," or "to make ends meet," under circumstances that 
would make a " Levee merchant" blush. 1 have known a gen- 
tleman to purchase a steamboat without a dollar in hand, drop 
her down to the wharf, " stick up his single" for New Orleans, 
get a full cargo, step into one of our offices, effect an insurance 
on his " freight list," negotiate a bill of exchange on his agent 
in New Orleans to pay charges and outfit here, make a success- 
ful trip or two, pay for his boat, and in sixty days on the look- 
out for a similar speculation. Such, and three times as much 
more of a kindred nature, not unfrequently falls to the lot of a 
man but partially familiarized with the management of accounts, 
to blunder through. Understanding the nature of one account, 
he has left him an alternative, that is, to throw all transactions 
into his Cash Account, Recapitulate, and hand over a "Cash 
Memorandum" to his successor. 

This clerk turns over a new leaf, counts the actual cash on 
board, and commences his work on " a clean sheet ;" but pays 
no further attention to the " Cash Memorandum" (it being no 
part of his business). The memorandum is soon misplaced or 
lost, debts due the boat remain uncollected, and bills against 
her commence coming in — of which there is no entry in the 
books. The season advancing, and the receipts falling off, the 



SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 401 

owners conclude to " tie up ;" whereupon the following inter- 
esting conversation takes place, viz : 

Owners. " Well, Capt. , what's the word?" 

Captain. " Gentlemen, we have had a fine run, a splendid 
business, carried more freight and passengers, made better 
time, burned less wood, carried a smaller crew, had the best 
steward in the trade — indeed, gentlemen, it is acknowledged 
by all hands, in port and out of: port, high water or low water, 
that she is, emphatically , ' the boat.'' " 

Owners. " Good morning, Mr. , (clerk.) What's 

the good news with you ? " 

Clerk. " Good morning, gentlemen. ' Right side up !' On- 
ly give this boat a fair chance, and ' she'' 11 stack you up a 
cord of it.' " 

Owners. " What do you mean by a fair chance, Mr. ?" 

Clerk. u Let the owners square off old debts up to date, put 
in an extra boiler, paint up and put her in first rate running or- 
der, and let Capt. manage affairs to suit his own notion." 

Owners. " How much short will the boat be, after paying 
off as far as she is now able ?" 

Clerk. " Can't tell exactly ; indeed, a Philadelphia lawyer 
couldn't tell, from the manner in which these books have been 
kept, up to the time of my taking charge of them ; bills are 
coming in every trip, but, so far as known, about fourteen hun- 
dred dollars will be ' the pile.' " 

Owners. "Well! well!! This will do pretty fair for 
' green hands' at steamboating. A splendid boat — a fine and 
popular captain — an economical steward — had a splendid run, 
made lots of money ; but no cash on board !" 

This might be thought a fancy sketch by some (with a few 
thousand dollars in spare cash) just ready to embark in a steam- 
boat speculation ; but it is our real and candid opinion, that if 



402 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

" an infallible medium" were to issue a " Narrative," contain- 
ing the History of steamboating and the Lives of steamboat 
owners (especially of those unskilled in the ^management of ac- 
counts), the facts disclosed would prove that hundreds of cap- 
tains, pilots, engineers, etc., &c, had been ruined or rendered 
bankrupt, and thousands of dollars squandered, by incompe- 
tent, inexperienced, and careless steamboat clerks. But we are 
happy to know that an important change is rapidly taking place, 
and interested parties are becoming impressed with the impor- 
tance of confining themselves to their legitimate professions, or 
of qualifying themselves for others before engaging in them. 
Honest, competent and worthy accountants are beginning to be 
appreciated and properly remunerated for their services. Young 
gentlemen of the highest respectability, who have distinguished 
themselves alike for moral character, industry, and superior 
professional qualifications, are abandoning the " counting- 
house" for " the office." 

Owners are requiring the books to be correctly kept, and ex- 
acting Trip Statements and such other checks as are necessary to 
protect their interests from the incompetent, the careless, and 
the designing. 

The old-fashioned steamboat clerks, who understood nothing 
but the " Recapitulation of Cash," are abandoning " the office," 
and seeking employment in other professions, or they are qual- 
ifying themselves for a practical and intelligent discharge of 
their duties ; and we are anticipating a period not distant, when 
steamboating, as a professsion, will be elevated to its legitimate 
and proper position, and its lucrative offices entrusted to those 
only who are competent. 

An extensive acquaintance with steamboat owners, and an 
experience of seventeen years in overhauling and adjusting 
Steamboat Books, have induced us to believe it a duty we owe 



SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 403 

alike to ourselves and to those ■who are not perfect, but wish to 
be thoroughly qualified for the duties of their office, to call at- 
tention to this subject, and to give a more extensive outline of 
what our Institution contemplates. It is not a school, in the 
common acceptation of that term, but it is preeminently a 
counting-house, or an office. Each respective gentleman has his 
own table, chair and drawer, and receives personal or individual 
instruction during his continuance at the rooms. 

The preparatory course to Steamboat Book-keeping is sub- 
stantially the same as that of the Mercantile (except Commis- 
sion operations, etc.), after which the pupil enters upon his 
duties as second clerk. "With his "Memorandum Book," he 
receives his freight, dray-load after dray-load, signing his 
" tickets," as in the practical performance of his duties on the 
wharf ; when fully prepared, he opens his Books and proceeds 
in his work, receiving and paying out cash, recording his 
freight list, collecting his passage and freight bills, adjusting 
the accounts for damages, etc., winds up his trip, and makes 
out his " balance sheet," exhibiting the gains or losses for eve- 
ry trip or month, as the case may be. The utility of this 
course has been fully established, in the popularity of those who 
have adopted it, as well as by those who are interested in Books 
kept by pupils of this Institution. 

COMMERCIAL LAW. 

The practicability of adopting Commercial Law as an impor- 
tant branch in a liberal and useful education will be apparent 
to all,, and the absolute necessity of making it a constituent 
part of *' a business man's education" grows out of the nature 
of the relation that commercial usages and the mercantile pro- 
fession sustain to the profession of law. 

If a gentleman choose to adopt the mercantile profession, 



404 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

should he not know what constitutes a bargain in the eye of the 
law ? with all that relates to a contract or! sale ? how far, in 
making a bargain, he may rightly avail himself of knowledge 
which he knows another does not possess, without informing 
him of it ? In other words, should he not know where is the 
dividing line between fair dealing and cheating ? 

If a merchant buy goods in a distant market, should he not 
understand his own rights, and also the duties and responsibi- 
lities of common carriers ? 

If (as most prudent merchants do) he effect an insurance 
upon his goods — if, in the regular course of transportation, or 
while in the warehouse, or when on sale in the store, those 
goods are subject to various perils — is it not absolutely neces- 
sary for him to understand his own duties, and also the respon- 
sibilities of the Underwriters ? 

If, to meet the demands for an increase of capital, or to 
supply themselves with additional counsel or assistance in 
trade, merchants find it convenient to associate themselves in 
partnership, should they not, therefore, be well acquainted with 
their respective legal rights, duties and guaranties? 

Indeed, the two professions are so intimately connected, and 
their reciprocal duties so marked, as to puzzle the intelligent 
business man to determine which is the greatest " boor," or the 
most unfortunate victim — a lawyer, unskilled in the manage- 
ment of accounts, acting as " Master in Chancery," or a mer- 
chant, un familiarized with the laws of trade, embarking in va- 
rious complicated speculations, or incurring high responsibili- 
ties. " Ah !" remarks a casual observer, " would you require 
every merchant to be educated for a lawyer?" "I answer 
(says Judge Walker), that while there is a vast field of law 
which I would advise the merchant not to meddle with, I would 
have him study the general principles of mercantile law, for 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 405 

the same reason that I would have a mechanic familiar with the 
tools of his trade. Indeed, so essential do I deem this kind of 
knowledge to every merchant, that, were I educating my son for 
that profession, I would set apart at least two years of his no- 
vitiate expressly for this study ; nay, more — so much do the 
two professions run into each other, especially in commercial 
cities, that if I were educating my son for the law, I should 
desire to have him spend at least the same period in a good 
counting-room. I speak now from my own professional ex- 
perience. After having occupied more than the usual time 
in preparing to practice law, when I entered upon the prac- 
tice, the most serious want I encountered was the want of a 
more accurate knowledge of those customs of merchants which 
constitute so large a part of mercantile law. But, while I 
I make this confession, let me say, on the other hand, that a 
somewhat extensive professional intercourse with the mercan- 
tile class has often caused me to feel astonished at their pro- 
found ignorance of their legal rights and duties, although to 
that very ignorance I was indebted for the need of my profes- 
sional services." 

It is not the design of this department to produce lawyers, 
but it shall be its highest aim to keep merchants out of law. 
Very great and insuperable obstacles have hitherto prevented 
the carrying into execution of our original intentions touching 
this interesting subject, but our arrangements are such as to 
enable us to give the fullest assurance to the public that in fu- 
ture a regular course of Lectures will be delivered during each 
session, embracing the following subjects, viz : Contracts in 
General, Contracts of Sale, Contracts of Affreightment, Con- 
tracts with Common Carriers, etc., etc. ; Fire Insurance and 
Marine Insurance, with such other subjects as have a direct 
bearing on Mercantile Contracts ; Bailments in General, For- 



406 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

eign and Domestic Bills of Exchange, Promissory Notes, 
Bonds, Covenants, and other sealed obligations; Set-off and 
Recoupment, Principal and Agent, Principal and Security, 
Corporations, etc., etc. ; with such other subjects as may be of 
practical utility to the business man, and enable the merchant 
to understand his rights and responsibilities. 

COMMERCIAL CALCULATIONS. 

This department occupies the third story of the College 
building, situated on the south-east corner of Washington avenue 
and Third street, and will hereafter be under the control of 
Charles Stuart, Professor of Mathematics, whose superior 
qualifications as a successful teacher have been long known 
and properly appreciated in this community ; and his complete 
system of " Ready Reckoning" makes this course of the high- 
est importance to those wishing to become thorough practi- 
cal accountants. The course of instruction embraces a know- 
ledge of every species of Calculation necessary for a business 
man to know ; the system is Analytical, Inductive, and Practi- 
cal, including all the modern improvements in the Art of Teach- 
ing (many of which are original, and peculiar to this Institu- 
tion), such as the " Cancelling Method," Rules for Interest 
Calculations, General Average, etc., etc. 

PENMANSHIP. 

To write a free, legible hand — such as should be used in the 
keeping of books, the making out of bills, or in the ordinary 
correspondence of a business man — is a desirable accomplish- 
ment in the education of young gentlemen for every profession ; 
but most especially is it an object of first importance with those 
desirous of qualifying themselves for mercantile and business 
pursuits. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 407 

No pains will be spared, on the part of the Professor in this 
department, to give a free and natural use of the arm, wrist 
and fingers, and to impart a cultivated taste for a plain, uni- 
form and expeditious system of fine writing. Every thing re- 
sembling a flourish positively prohibited with those designed for 
the counting-room. 

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN. 

One somewhat " posted vp" touching men and things f 
would, at first view, naturally enough presume it but an easy 
and pleasing task, to teach another a thing, which that person's 
own professional duties — the duties he owes to his creditors — 
the duties he owes to his family, as well as his own personal in- 
terest and reputation — require him to know. Acting under such 
mistaken notions, and from a well-matured conviction that 
none but a thorough Accountant, himself skilled in the practi- 
cal duties and personally familiarized with the entire routine of 
the counting-house, could successfully train young gentlemen 
for the performance of their duties as practical Book-keepers, 
the Principal of this Institution opened Jones' Commercial 
School, of St. Louis, early in 1841, upon a new and strictly 
original plan of imparting instruction. Although that plan 
differs, in every essential particular, from those of its prede- 
cessors and cotemporaries, who had attempted, or were endeav- 
oring, through the use of Bennett's, Colt's, Foster's, and other 
works on Book-keeping, to qualify young gentlemen as practi- 
cal Accountants, and invariably failed in their efforts, this 
school, for a long time, seemed destined to share the same fate ; 
but of late years things seem to have changed, and the notions 
of business men seem to have changed with them. Then, it 
was universally maintained that young gentlemen should go to 
the counting-house in order to be educated for business pursuits. 



408 SKETCH BOOK OP ST. LOUIS. 

Now, it is pretty generally held to be essentially necessary that 
young gentlemen be educated for the counting-house, just as 
much so as for any other profession or pursuit. For seventeen 
consecutive years we have labored in this city for the accom- 
plishment of a single object, viz : the formation and permanent 
establishment of a reliable reputation as a Public Accountant 
and successful Educator. That has been our highest aim, and 
this our only Profession. How far we have succeeded in making 
an impression upon the business community, we leave our "Liv- 
ing Epistles" to say — more than three hundred of whom, in 
this city, are recognized as practical Book-keepers, and receiv- 
ing as ample remuneration for their services as those who have 
been qualified under any other circumstances. Our Rooms are 
open to the public during business hours, and we have at all 
times endeavored to cultivate the friendly acquaintance of Prac- 
tical Accountants, knowing full well that they only are fully 
prepared to appreciate what is of utility, and reprobate that 
which is useless, in a business education; and we say without 
fear of contradiction, that no experienced business man or 
Practical Accountant can visit our rooms and become acquaint- 
ed with our peculiar mode of imparting instruction, and 
detect the slightest difference between our operations and those 
of the counting-house in which he was educated ; and, notwith- 
standing all this, there are some good men in this community, 
gentlemen of reputed intelligence and high moral charcter, who 
are deservedly popular in their profession as Practical Account- 
ants, that think they are doing their young friends a kindly 
office by indiscriminately branding Commercial Schools and 
Colleges "Humbugs" ! ! For such we have never held unkind 
feelings. Indeed, entertaining the opinions they do, and occu- 
pying the positions they hold, we can not see how they could 
believe and do otherwise. The old-fashioned schools with which 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 409 

they were acquainted, "in the days of their youth," were all 
of this stamp (». e., humbugs !), and they never visit institu- 
tions of this kind ; and therefore their "ways are equal," and 
their views are but an inevitable result growing out of an impar- 
tial comparison of what they themselves have acquired under 
the tuition of experienced Practical Accountants, with what in- 
experienced, incompetent, theoretical teachers have attempted to 
do. Did we understand the plan and extent of instruction 
adopted in this Institution no better than they do, it is more 
than probable that we should lend them a helping hand to exter- 
minate the imaginary evil, and add our warning voice to the 
young and unsuspecting ; but, in this particular, we have an 
advantage over them : hence their innocency and our accounta- 
bility. There is a practical Book- keeper, whose name is H , 

at this time in charge of books in one of our most respectable 
mercantile houses, at a salary of one thousand dollars per 
annum, who, upon completing his course in Book-keeping, 
under our instruction, some years since, commenced and con- 
ducted the following conversation with the Principal of this In- 
stitution, in the presence of the whole School. 

Mr. H (standing up at his desk. ) " Mr. Jones, why 

is it that you have so many enemies among the Practical Ac- 
countants and business men of this city?" 

J. J . Mr. H. , you astonish me, sir ! It is true I 

am but a comparative stranger in the city ; have made the ac- 
quaintance of but few Practical Accountants and business men ; 
have formed rather a favorable opinion of those with whom I 
have become acquainted; had thought they were not very 
neighborly, but I was quite certain that when we became a little 
more intimate, we would be as friendly as David and Jonthan 

were. But please, Mr. H , explain yourself more fully on 

this subject." 
18 



410 SKUTOII JlOOIi OF ST. LOCUS. 

Mr. H . " Do you remember my commencing a course of 

instruction -with you, some two or three years since, and my un- 
ceremonious discontinuance V 

J. J . " Quite well, sir." 

Mr. H . "I was at that time acting in a subordinate 

situation in one of the city Insurance Offices, and one day I 
accidentally named to Mr. , our Secretary, that I was at- 
tending your School in order to learn Book-keeping. 'Oh! 
fudge,' said he ; all & humbug, sir, a humbug. You can not 
not learn any thing there — it is only throwing away time and 
money, without the possibility of any practical good to be de- 
rived ;.' and such was my confidence in the gentleman's judg- 
ment and his kind intentions towards me as a friend, that I 
dropped off attending your School, and made engagements 
with S. Bro. & Co., at a nominal salary, and left for Illinois. 
Some weeks since, I received a letter from Mr. P., containing a 
proposition forme to take charge of their books, on condition 
that I would take a preparatory course of instruction in your 
Institution ; which I have accordingly done, to my entire sat- 
isfaction, and to-morrow I take charge of A. & P.'s books, 
with full confidence in my ability to keep them correctly and to 
their entire satisfaction ; and had I known as much of your In- 
stitution at the time I spoke to Mr. as I do now, I could 

have had double the salary and two years of valuable experience ; 
and but for Mr. P, I should have remained ignorant of the true 
nature and design of your Institution, as I presume thousands 
are in this city at this time." 

Mr. H took charge of the books referred to at the time 

specified ; and from that day until now he has been recognized 
as a competent Book-keeper, and pursued no other profession, 
although he had never written in books kept by Double-entry 
previously to his entering this Institution. 






SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 411 

This is but a fair specimen of what we could present by the hun- 
dred during our first four or five years' experience in this city, 
of young gentlemen* of good business habits, writing beauti- 
fully, ready and accurate in their calculation, and perfectly fami- 
liarized with business routine, who might this day command their 
twelve hundred dollars per annum, had they not become the un- 
suspecting dupes of this class of " Old Fogies." And whom 
have these " Old Fogies" benefitted by their "dog-in-the- 
manger" policy? Have they benevolently stepped forward 
and supplied these young gentlemen and the business commu- 
nity with this lack of competent practical instruction ? Not 
they ! When experienced Practical Accountants adopt 
teaching as a profession, and organize an Institution loith 
all the facilities known in the actual performance of their 
duties in the counting-house, do these " ancient worthies" 
visit such institutions and speak from what they have seen or 
known ? Not they ! Their argument is, we have attended 
Commercial Schools " Down East," and were humbugged! 
They have not got any thing as good " OUT West" as they 
have " on East"!! Therefore all Commercial Schools and 
Colleges are " Humbugs " ! ! ! It is true that for a time they 
succeeded in diverting the attention of just such young men as 
were the best qualified to appreciate the merits or to condemn 
the policy of an Institution of this kind. But then we have 
gone to the carpenter shop, to the paint shop, to the printing 
office, and to the plow-handle and selected our materials, and 
produced a class of Book-keepers of an entirely new and differ- 
ent stamp. Those old-fashioned Accountants understand Book- 
keeping, but " THEY DON'T KNOW ANYTHING ELSE ! !" This 

new class of accountants were business men in the enlarged 
sense of that term, before taking lessons in Book-keeping and 
mercantile usages — educated in the school of experience, in 



412 SKETCH DOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

■which men as they are, and things as they should be, constitute 
the standard text-book — raised to business, accustomed to in- 
dustrial pursuits, and not ashamed or too proud to work. Thus, 
in keeping with the progress of this wonderful age, the econo- 
mical merchant is accommodated with a Book-keeper and a 
practical business man in the same contract. Practical Ac- 
countants, business men, and gentlemen desirous of qualifying 
themselves for business pursuits, are urgently but respectfully 
requested to visit our rooms during business hours, and examine 
our mode of imparting instruction, in contradistinction to that 
ordinarily adopted in Schools and Colleges, and become per- 
sonally acquainted with the actual workings of this Institution, 
as such visits do not in the least interrupt the regular operations 
of the School. 

The foregoing thoroughly demonstrates at once the useful- 
ness and necessity of such an Institution as " Jones' Commer- 
cial College," and so firmly has this conviction fastened itself 
upon the minds of our people that already the school is filled 
with more scholars than it can well accommodate, rendering the 
building of a new College necessary, which is to be done the 
present summer. It is proposed to make it of a capacity to 
accommodate from five to eight hundred students, and will be 
furnished with every thing calculated to facilitate the studies of 
those who may be seeking after the true principles of Book- 
keeping in connection with a thorough business education. 

All information concerning the Institution, terms, etc., can 
be learned by addressing Mr. Jonathan Jones, who gladly re- 
plies to all reasonable enquiries connected with his College. 



SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 413 

WHOLESALE AND RETAIL 

EAGLE TRUNK MANUFACTORY, 

No. 16 Vine street, opposite King's Hotel. 

S. F. Summers, Proprietor. 

This is the most extensive and best arranged establishment 
in the United States, and has a reputation for superiority which 
leaves far behind all other similar houses. The proprietor, Mr. 
S. F. Summers, has long been engaged in the manufacture of 
Trunks in St. Louis, and by strict attention to business has 
gained the confidence of the entire community. As an evidence 
of the regard in which his Trunks are held by the people of the 
United States, we will refer to the fact that at the great World's 
Fair held in New York in 1852, he carried away the first pre- 
mium ; he was also the successful competitor at the Illinois 
State Fair. At the great Agricultural and Mechanical Fairs 
held in St. Louis in 1856 and '57 he was awarded the first pre- 
miums. 

Mr. Summers has also letters patent granted him for an Im- 
proved Travelling Trunk, which fully answers all that is claimed 
for it over Trunks manufactured in the ordinary manner. 

The essential features of my improvement consist in solid 
metalic ends, connecting with iron bars inside, extending length- 
wise across the bottom and up the ends, forming a firm support 
for the tray, and securing the castors on the bottom, allowing the 
leather to intervene between the castor and inside bar. The elas- 
ticity of the leather prevents the castors from being broken off; 
and it can be more firmly riveted on, doing away entirely with 
the bottom strips, which are a continual annoyance, liable to be 
broken and torn off every time they are used. A Trunk made 



414 SKETCH BOOK OF ST. LOUIS. 

on this principle, the body must be made of one piece of lea- 
ther, and will not permit of being pieced as Trunks are gen- 
erally made in the ordinary way, and covered with the bottom 
strip, completely hidiDg the piecing on the bottom. This Trunk 
must be made honestly, as it can not be slighted ; and nothing 
can injure it unless the force would be sufficient to crush the 
material of which it is constructed. The principle is cheap and 
simple — allowing a neater finish — costing the purchaser no 
more. As he has not advanced the price, the public are re- 
spectfully invited to call and examine his stock before purchas- 
ing elsewhere, as he has determined his Improved Trunk shall 
be all it is represented. 

We have examined numerous letters from eminent Trunk 
Manufacturers in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, Louis- 
ville, New York, &c, &c, certifying to the superior character 
of this Trunk, and from the specimens we have inspected we 
unhesitatingly pronounce it superior to any thing that has yet 
been presented to the public. 

Mr. Summers has constantly on hand solid Sole Leather, and 
Ladies' French Trunks, Hat Cases, Wood Folios, Valises, Car- 
pet Bags, Packing Trunks, and Trunks especially for the Santa 
Fe trade. Merchants and dealers in Trunks will find the larg- 
est assortment, and at lower prices than at any establishment 
in the city. 

Trunks made to order, covered or exchanged, at the Eagle 
Wholesale and Retail Trunk Manufactory, No. 16 Vine street, 
opposite King's Hotel, and No. 68 Second street, near the 
Monroe House. 



BUSINESS DIRECTORY. 



AGENTS. 

The following gentlemen engnged in the Agency business in 
St. Louis are honest, upright and responsible men, who will 
faithfully perform every trust reposed in them. 

N. Ranney, Agent for buying and selling Missouri Securities. 
No. 42 Commercial street. 

Wm. H. Russell, Fire Proof Hemp Warehouse. Will store 
Hemp and sell on commission when desired. Nos. 281 
and 283 North Main street. 



BAKERS. 

We can with confidence recommend to our readers the fol- 
lowing houses as eminently worthy of patronage. 

H. N. Kendall & Co., corner of Sixth and Pine streets. 

J. Garneau, corner of Seventeenth and Morgan streets, and 
No. 9 Commercial street. 

Charles Holmes, Nos. 67 and 69, and 86 and 88 Green 
street. 



416 BUSINESS DIRECTORY. 



BOOT AND SHOE DEALERS. 

G. Rosenbaum, Premium Boot and Shoe Manufacturer, No. 9 
Olive street. 

C. R. Stinde & Co., No. 18 Main street, up stairs. 



CIGARS AND TOBACCO. 

The following houses keep constantly on hand a full supply 
of the best brands of Cigars, Chewing and Smoking Tobacco, 
which they offer at reduced rates. 

Joseph Warren, No. 134 Market street. 

J. Opal, No. 157 North Fourth street. 

H. F. Hilgendorf, No. 163 North Main street. 

Joseph A. Aiken, Vine street, two doors from Second, under 
King's Hotel. 



DRY GOODS DEALERS. 

This branch of trade is well stocked with good men. The 
following we can recommend as being " all right :" 

Ubsdell, Pierson & Co., corner Fourth, Vine and St. Charles 
streets. 

P. & B. Slevin, No. 132 Main street. 

J. J. Donegan & Co., No. 60 Market street. 

Brownlee, Homer & Co., No. 75 Main street. 



BUSINESS DIRECTORY. 417 

Doan, King & Co., Nos. 107 & 109 Main street. 

PlTTMAN & Tennant, No. 101 Main street. 

Lucas, Thompson & Co., No. 99 Main street. 

Wise, Singer & Co., No. 13 Main street. 

McClelland, Scruggs & Co., corner St. Charles and Fourth 
streets. 



EXPRESS COMPANIES. 

American Express Company. General Office, 62 Broadway, 
N. Y., and Nos. 9, 11 & 13 West Seneca street, Buffalo; 
St. Louis — Office No. 56 Main street. Livingston, Fargo 
& Co. and Wells, Butterfield & Co., Proprietors. 

The Adams Express Company. Principal Offices — No. 84 
Washington street, Boston ; No. 59 Broadway, N. Y. ; 
No. 320 Chesnut street, Philadelphia ; No. 164 Baltimore 
street, Baltimore ; No. Pennsylvania Avenue, Wash- 
ington, D. C. ; No. 64 Fourth street, Pittsburgh ; No. 56 
East Third street, Cincinnati ; No. 52 North Main street, 
St. Louis ; No. 96 Camp street, N. 0. 

United States Express Company. General Offices, No. 82 
Broadway, N. Y. ; No. 3, corner Pearl and Seneca streets, 
Buffalo ; No. 12 Main street, St. Louis. 



FANCY AND VARIETY GOODS. 

To dealers wishing to secure a supply of Fancy and Variety 
Goods, Toys, &c, we recommend — 
Wolff & Hoppe, Nos. 159 & 161 North Main street. 

F. Dings & Co., No. 39 North Main street, up stairs. 
18* 



418 BUSINESS DIRECTORY. 

L. & C. Speck & Co., No. 60 North Main street. 

John O'Malley, North-west corner Levee and Market street. 

Mrs. Barnhurst, No. 74 Market street. 



GROCERS AND COMMISSION HOUSES. 

The following houses have long held a high position in the 
affections of our people from their honorable career in business, 
and to which we cordially recommend our readers : 

D. Nicholson, Nos. 118 & 120 Market street, opposite the 
Court House. 

J. R. Wendover & Co., 208 Broadway and 195 Fourth st. 

M. S. Mepham, corner of Green and Second streets. 

Von Phul & Waters, No. 127 North Second street, one door 
from Washington avenue. 

D. A. January Co., 148 & 145 North Second street, between 
Washington avenue and Green street. 

Small, Wells & Co., 139 North Second street, between Wash- 
ington avenue and Green street. 

Samuel McCartney, 110 & 112 North Second street, between 
Locust and Vine. 

Myron F. Benjamin, 75 & 80 Front Levee. 

Thompson, White & Pryor, 30 & 32 North Second street. 

Spaunhorst & Co., 204 North Main street, between Green and 
Morgan streets. 

S. Cranwill, 219 & 221 North Main street. 



BUSINESS DIRECTOKY. 419 

Erfort & Petring, 153 & 155 Second street, corner of Green. 

Mark Hamilton, 141 Second street, between Washington ave- 
nue and Green street. 

W. L. Ewing & Co., 104 Second street, one door north of Lo- 
cust street. 

Shackelford, Finney & Co., 132 Second street, between 
Washington avenue and Vine street. 

Felte & Bro., 105 & 107 South Main street, between Spruce 
and Almond streets. 

Goodrich, Willard & Co., 130 North Second street, between 
Washington avenue and Vine street. 

H. Gilderhadse & Co., 164 North Second street, two doors 
south of Green street. 

Fenton, Brothers, 78 Levee and 156 Commercial street. 

Hibbard & Hollister, Forwarding and Commission Mer- 
chants, No. 1 North Levee, up stairs. 



HOMOEOPATHIC PHYSICIAN. 

Dr. T. G. Comstock, Homoeopathic Physician, Surgeon and 
Obstetrician, office South-east corner of Fifth and Pine 
streets, up stairs. 



IRON MERCHANT. 

Samuel McNeilly, Juniata Iron and Wheeling Nail Store, Nos. 
12 & 13 Levee, corner of Chesnut. 



420 BUSINESS DIRECTORY. 

LEATHER DEALERS. 

The following wholesale and retail houses, engaged in this 
trade, are the most prominent in the city : 

Johi: How, No. 140 North Main street. 

C. G. Fell & Bro., Leather and Shoe Manufacturers' Articles, 
No. 6 South Main street, opposite the Merchants' Ex- 
change. 

H. A. Conant, dealer in Hides, Leather and Wool, No. 79 Se- 
cond street. 



LIQUOR DEALERS. 

Persons desirous of purchasing a Stock of Pure Liquors, 
should not fail to visit — 

D. H. Evans, Nos. 191 & 193 North Main street. 

Monks & Ghio, No. 178 North Second street. 

G. W. Brooks, corner Fourth and Green streets. 

Theodore Bredow, No. 11 Pine street. 



LUMBER DEALERS. 

Messrs. James A. Rogers & Son, Lumber Dealers, corner of 
Broadway and Mullanphy street ; also Proprietors of the 
Broadway Planing Mill, and Sash, Door and Blind Facto- 
tory, between Cass avenue and O'Fallon street. 



BUSINESS DIRECTORY. 421 

MARBLE WORKS. 

The houses engaged in this branch of trade in our city can 
not be excelled. The following are the most extensive : 

Washington Marble Works, corner of Fifth street and Wash- 
ington avenue. Park & McClintock keep constantly on 
hand an elegant assortment of Marble Mantels, Monu- 
ments, Head Stones, Tombs, Marble Tiles, Furniture 
Slabs, Plaster of Paris, and Cement. All orders filled 
with promptness and care. 

Empire Steam Marble Works, Nos. 63 & 65 Market street. 
Webb, Brison & Co. Monuments, Tombs, Grave Stones, 
Marble Mantels, Statuary, Garden Figures, Cabinet and 
Counter Slabs, &c, furnished to order on the shortest 
notice. 

E. W. Warne's Marble Works, No. 9 South Fourth street, 
dealer in Egyptian, Italian and American Marble Monu- 
ments, Tombs, Mantels, Tables, and Counter Tops, &c. 



MUSIC DEALERS. 

St. Louis boasts of as great a number of Music Publishers 
as any city in the Union ; among the number we mention — 

Balmer & Weber, No. 56 Fourth street, Publishers of Music, 
and dealers in Tiano- fortes and Musical Instruments of 
every description. 

Charles Fritz, No. 52 Fourth street, importer and dealer in 
Musical Instruments, and European and American Music. 

H. D. Hewitt, Agent for Stodart's unrivalled New York Piano- 
fortes, corner Fifth and Pine streets. 



TABLE OF CONTENTS. 



A 

Anderson's, J. J., Banking House 296 

American Fire-proof Roofing Co 310 

Arnot's Livery Stable 305 

Anderson's Show Case Manufactory 353 

Agents..... 415 

An Acrostic 369 

B 

Barnum's Hotel 195 

Broadway Foundry 227 

Barnhart, F., Stevedore 235 

Branch, Crookes & Co 250 

Barnhurst, Mrs. 291 

Ball, Worrell & Milnor 302 

Beauvais R. • • 327 

Books and Stationery, L. Bushnell & Co. 344 

Blatchford & Collins 350, 359 

Brainard, S. S. 360 

Bremermann, Eashcoe & Co 354 

Bahner & "Weber 346 

Blake, Dr. A. 380 

Bakers 415 

Boot and Shoe Dealers 416 



424 TABLE OF CONTENTS. 

C 

Chandler, J. L. & Co. 374 

Carr, L. & A. 370 

Chauvin, Charles 367 

Charles, R. Tea Store 320 

Court House 33 

Custom House • * 34 

Church of the Messiah • • • 35 

Cathedral, The 40 

City Hospital 42 

Chicago, Alton and St. Louis Railroad 150 

Clark, Plant & Norris • 240 

Cook, John 251 

Crane, J. H. • 298 

Cook & Matthews 285 

Clark, F. & F. D. • 277 

Crawford's, Jas., Book Store 317 

Cigars and Tobacco • 416 

D 

Democrat, Daily Missouri 107 

Dean, W. & Co. 324 

Dimick, Horace E. 247 

Donegan, J. J. & Co. 333 

Ding, F. & Co. 323 

Dry Goods Dealers • 416 

E 

Early History (of St. Louis) 9 

Eagle Steam and Gas Pipe Works 244 

Empire Plow Works 326 



TABLE OF CONTENTS. 425 

Evans' Ale Depot 345 

Easterly's, Dr., Family Medicines 262 

Excelsior Stove Works 391 

Express Companies 417 

F 

Fitzgibbon's Gallery 311 

Fire Department 98 

Fulton Foundry and Machine Shop 216 

Forbes, Dr. I. 378 

For Missouri River 383 

Franklin Foundry 225 

Fulton Boiler Yard and Sheet Iron Works 234 

Fire Department, Volunteer 98 

Paid 100 

Furs and Fur Goods 259 

Furniture Factory, C. Marlow's 269 

Fallon & Wright 329 

Franklin Tea and Coffee Warehouse 337 

Fancy Dyeing and Scouring 352 

Fritz, Charles, Music Dealer 351 

Fancy and Variety Goods 417 

G 

Garneau's Steam Bakery 287 

Girls' Industrial School 39 

Great Western Machinery Warehouse 279 

Ganter & Hambright's Restaurant 347 

Giant Hat Depot 335 

Graham, B. H. 376 

Great Mail, Express and Passenger Route 382 

Grocers and Commission Merchants 418 



426 TABLE OF CONTENTS. 



H 

Hall of Merchants' Exchange 59 

Herald, Daily, St. Louis 110 

History of St. Louis (continued) 27 

Hunt & Wiseman • 246 

Harlow, Wm. M. 293 

Holmes, Charles 309 

Henderson, A. H. 257 

How, John 381 

Homoepathic Physician ■ 419 

I 

Introduction 5 

Illinois Central Kailroad • 141 

Iron Mountain Railroad, St. Louis & 171 

Iron Merchant. 419 

J 

Jones' Commercial College 393 

Jones' Exchange Hotel 210 

K 

Kendall, H. N. & Co. ■ •■• 292 

King's Hotel 207 

L 

Locke, J. J. 357 

Leader, St. Louis 108 

Leather Dealers 420 

Liquor Dealers r 420 

Lumber Dealers 420 



TABLE OF CONTENTS. 427 

M 

M.E. Church, South 38 

Marine Hospital 46 

Missouri Medical College 49 

Medical Department of St. Louis College 51 

Museum, St. Louis 46 

Missouri Institution for the Blind 40 

Manufactures of St. Louis • 77 

Mercantile Library Association °6 

Mechanics' and Manufacturers' Exchange 64 

Merchants' Exchange 55 

Monarch Safe Manufactory • 229 

Monroe Iron Works 224 

Mississippi Foundry and Iron Works 212 

Monroe House 200 

Marlon's, C, Furniture Factory 269 

McDowell, A. & Co. 307 

Mathematical Works 343 

Mepham & Brother 363 

Miller, R. H. & Sons. 371 

Mead, Edward & Co. 365 

McLean, A. 361 

Marble Works 421 

Music Dealers 421 

N 

Naples Packet Line 301 

Nicholson's, D., Grocery Store 321 

B. Noel, 233 

O 

Outley, J. J., Daguerrean Artist 289 

O'Malley, John 295 



428 TABLE OF CONTENTS. 

Ohio and Mississippi Railroad 126 

O'Fallon Dispensary • • • • 53 

Oglesby, J. H., Steamer 388 



Phoenix Foundry and Agricultural Machinery Works 221 

Pacific Railroad 178 

Price Current 112 

Premium Wire Works 253 

Pawnbroker's Office 304 

Palmer's 332 

Post Office 40 

Presbyterian Church, First 37 

" Union 36 

Public Buildings 33 

Police Department »■ 30 

Prouhet & Witt 339 

Peters, R.J. 303 

R 

Reading, G. 299 

Reynolds, H. 328 

Rogers & McCormack 266 

Rosenbaum, J. 373 

s 

St. Louis and Keokuk Packet Co. 192 

" " St. Joseph Union Packet Line 189 

" and Nashville Packet " Sallie West" 389 

" Nut, Washer and Bolt Manufactory 236 

" Agricultural and Mechanical Association 95 

" Daily Republican 103 



TABLE OF CONTENTS. 429 

St. Louis Patent Press Oil Works • 263 

" Glass Works 260 

" Scale Factory 256 

" Hospital Association 44 

Succession of Mayors 30 

Spore, Jas. 316 

Slevin, P. &B. 349 

Scarrett & Mason 274 

Sheffield Steel Warehouse 276 

Sherman, Dr. E. W. 268 

Ship Building 255 

Seed Store and Agricultural Warehouse 249 

Sheet Iron Works 283 

Steamer Star of the West 386 

Steamer Eodolph 387 

T 

Terre-Haute and St. Louis Railroad 158 

Ticknor, Robbins & Co. 272 

Toledo, Wabash Valley and Great Western Railroad 153 

Thompson, D. S. 341 

u 

Ubsdell, Pierson & Co. 355 

Undertaking Establishment 258 

V 

Virginia Hotel 203 

w 

Warne, Cheever & Co 315 

Warren, Joseph 318 



430 TABLE OF CONTENTS. 

Wendover, J. E. & Co. 362 

Wolff & Hoppe 330 

Wescott, Mrs. J 338 

"Washington Institute 38 

Western Kiver Improvement and Wrecking Co. 114 

Waterworks 69 

Wheeler & Wilson 282 

Wilson & Parker 377 



U N ?9 



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